| Full text | |
| Author(s): |
Total Authors: 2
|
| Affiliation: | [1] Univ Penn, Dept Phys & Astron, 209 South 33rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 - USA
[2] Univ Estadual Campinas, Dept Matemat Aplicada, BR-13083859 Campinas, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
|
| Document type: | Journal article |
| Source: | NEW JOURNAL OF PHYSICS; v. 18, MAY 6 2016. |
| Web of Science Citations: | 1 |
| Abstract | |
The order parameter of the smectic liquid crystal phase is the same as that of a superfluid or superconductor, namely a complex scalar field. We show that the essential difference in boundary conditions between these systems leads to a markedly different topological structure of the defects. Screw and edge defects can be distinguished topologically. This implies an invariant on an edge dislocation loop so that smectic defects can be topologically linked not unlike defects in ordered systems with non -Abelian fundamental groups. (AU) | |
| FAPESP's process: | 13/09357-9 - Physics and geometry of spacetime |
| Grantee: | Alberto Vazquez Saa |
| Support Opportunities: | Research Projects - Thematic Grants |