The orientational order of nematogenic molecules with a flexible core

The orientational order of the α,ω-bis(4,4′-cyanobiphenyloxy)alkanes, new nematogens with a flexible core linking two rigid groups has been studied using deuterium N.M.R. spectroscopy. The order parameter for the para-axis of the cyanobiphenyl group, determined at the nematic-isotropic transition, is found to be considerably greater for members of the homologous series with an even number of methylene groups than for those with an odd number.