Question

explain what are the structural features of cholesteryl nonanoate responsible for its liquid crystal properties?

Answer 1

Cholesteryl nonanoate

1) An ester of cholesterol and nonanoic acid.
2) It is a liquid crystal, organic compounds that are in a state between liquid and solid forms.
3) It forms helical structure liquid crystal
4) Because of its long side chain ,it is capable of responding to small amounts of radiant energy and will undergo a phase transition with selective reflection of light.
5) Low degree of order beteween liquid crystal molecules.

crystalline phase to smectic phase 77.5 °C
smectic phase to cholesteric phase 79 °C
cholesteric phase to isotropic phase 90 °C

Cholestexyl nenanoate