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Abstract
In this article mesoscopic continuum physics is reviewed using generalized coordinates in the context of liquid crystals. A special focus is put on the balance of spin (internal angular momentum). Mesoscopic continuum physics introduces variables describing the micro-structure – like the orientation of crystals – into the domain of the fields, thus treating them equivalently to space. The theory of mesoscopic continuum physics has been reformulated, resulting in more compact equations. In this formulation the balance of spin shows up naturally as component equations of the balance of momentum. This represents an advantage over the standard formulation of mesoscopic continuum physics.
Received: 2009-10-16
Accepted: 2009-12-08
Published Online: 2010-10-18
Published in Print: 2010-October
© de Gruyter 2010
