Physics and Chemistry of Molecular Assemblies

The JLCS Excellent Book Award 2021 by Japanese Liquid Crystal SocietyIn nature, a number of molecules self-assemble to form various aggregation states. In these aggregation states, numerous functions, which have never been observed in one molecule, are developed. Even for the same compound, the different aggregation states exhibit totally different physical properties in density, hardness, optical and electrical properties, medicinal effect, etc. For pursuing the functionality of materials, it may be indispensable to understand the molecular aggregation states of crystals, liquid crystals, glass, colloids, etc. In this book, the author will focus on the basis of polymorphic phenomena of crystals and liquid crystals and their physical properties. After reading this book, you will be able to change your viewpoint of matter from traditional limited “three states of matter” to novel “numerous states of matter.”