On the possibility of generalized Freedericksz transition in nematics

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Abstract
In a recent paper, Lonberg and Meyer have reported a new form of Freedericksz transition in polymer nematics under the action of a magnetic field and have described it using the Oseen-Frank elasticity theory. In this communication, using the approach of Lonberg and Meyer the possibility of the occurrence of the new Freedericksz effect is studied for oblique director orientation, oblique magnetic field and for different ratios of elastic constants. The results may be relevant to the case of certain polymer nematics as also to the case of nematics exhibiting a smectic phase