Nematic Liquid Crystal — Frank Elasticity

Director field n̂(x,y) relaxation with splay K₁, twist K₂, bend K₃ constants. Click to add defects.

Elastic Constants

Add Defect

−½
+1
−1
Draw
Frank energy:
Step: 0
Director field: n̂ = (cos θ, sin θ)
Frank energy: ∫[K₁(∇·n̂)²+K₃(n̂×∇×n̂)²]
±½ defects: color mapped, rods show n̂.
Click canvas to insert defect of chosen type.