Optical-Field-Induced Ordering in the Isotropic Phase of a Nematic Liquid Crystal

We have shown by measuring the field-induced refractive index that molecular ordering in the isotropic phase of $p$-methoxy benzylidene $p-n$-butylaniline (MBBA) can be induced by an intense laser field. We have also measured directly the ordering relaxation time as a function of temperature. The results are compared with the predictions of the Landau—de Gennes model.