Topological physics illustrated in the laboratory
T. F. Rosenbaum, D. L. Stein · American Journal of Physics · 1981
Topological ideas can be used to predict a variety of textures and defects in condensed matter systems under certain conditions. Liquid crystals exhibit a rich variety of such textures, and provide an accessible system on which to perform tabletop experiments. One means of creating and observing various liquid crystal textures is described, and results of these observations are presented.