The influence of the conformation degree of freedom on the dynamics of nematics

The aim of the present study has been to elucidate the dynamics of biaxial nematics using the Hamilton approach as a basis, giving consideration to disk-shaped molecules and taking into account the conformation degree of freedom. The algebra of Poisson brackets is found for the whole set of hydrodynamic variables. The densities of additive integrals of motion and their associated fluxes are represented in terms of the thermodynamic potential. The spectra of linear oscillations in nematic liquid crystals are considered. Two branches of ultrasonic oscillations are calculated, and the nature of anisotropy of the two sound velocities is clarified. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.