This unique reference book offers a basic treatment of liquid crystals, including both microscopic and macroscopic properties, as well as liquid crystal line materials. It spans a wide range of topics, from the fundamentals of liquid crystal physics to recent advances in research. Included our discussions of ramen, infrared, fluorescents and an spectroscopes, electron spin resonance in liquid crystals and X-ray diffraction methods for structure determination. Especially important are the chapters covering the emerging fields of research, including surface effects and nonlinear optical phenomena of nematic liquid crystals. This is an important book that provides A detailed look at some of the specialised approaches taken in the study of liquid crystals and exciting new areas of research and is a must have book for all involved in the study of liquid crystals.