Density of methoxybenzylidene butylaniline about the isotropic–nematic phase transition

We have measured the density and determined the coefficient of expansion of MBBA about its isotropic−nematic transition temperature using a Mettler/Paar density meter. Our results show essential agreement with those of Press and Arrott using a buoyancy method. The small difference (<0.3°C) between the actual transition temperature and the virtual critical temperature differs from that determined by light scattering studies which yield values of about 1°C. Further examination on the nature of the virtual critical temperature is suggested.