Monte Carlo studies of model systems of rodlike molecules with partially flexible terminal groups and/or with side groups

The results of Monte Carlo simulations performed for model systems of rodli ke molecules are compared with those of the same rodlike molecules with sem iflexible end groups and/or with side groups. The presence of side groups p erturbs the packing of the rigid cores and lowers the nematic/isotropic tra nsition temperature. This effect is higher when the side groups are more ex posed.