The molecular-statistical calculation of the elastic constants of uniaxial nematics

Using the molecular-statistical theory of the thermodynamic properties of nematics and perturbation theory, the expressions for the elastic constants of uniaxial nematics are derived in terms of the mutual interactions between their constituent molecules. Next the elastic constants of the Maier-Saupe model are calculated and compared with the original result. The appearing difference is discussed briefly. Finally, in view of existing discrepancies, the elastic constants of the Onsager model are recalculated. For that purpose the hard rod interaction is conceived as the limit of a non-singular interaction. The elastic constants of hard core models are shown to increase with increasing temperature at constant density. In view of this behaviour the usefulness of hard core models for an understanding of the nematic state seems rather limited.