The Implications of the Diffuse-Cone Model for SmecticAandCPhases andA-CPhase Transitions

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Abstract
The diffuse-cone model, developed on the basis of the existence of orientational disorder in smectic phases, is valid for all smectic A and C phases, and also, with appropriate modifications, for all other smectic phases. The fundamental angular parameter is not the optical tilt angle τ, but the preferred molecular tilt angle θm. This explains why τ does not follow the (TA-C-T)0.35 dependency predicted by De Gennes whereas θm does. The diffuse-cone model also explains why the tilt angle obtained from measurements of the smectic layer thickness will in general not be equal to τ, and thus invalidates arguments based on such differences which were used to support a particular structural model.

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