Focal Conic Domains


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Smectic A (SmA) droplet freely suspended in an isotropic matrix. Because of the surface tension anisotropy the SmA droplet shows faceted structure. In SmA this faceting is provided by so-called focal conic domains in the form of cones of revolution. The focal conic domains fill the interior of the droplet: Their apexes meet in the center of the droplet and their circular bases are located on the droplet's surface.

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