| abstract |
2-phenylpyridine derivatives represented by the general formula: <IMAGE> wherein when Y is R-, Z is one of R-, RO-, <IMAGE> +TR <IMAGE> when Y is RO-, Z is one of straight chain pentyl, <IMAGE> and -CN; and when Y is one of <IMAGE> +TR <IMAGE> Z is one of R-, RO- and -CN; when Y is -CN, Z is one of RO-, <IMAGE> +TR <IMAGE> and R is a straight chain alkyl group from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, are disclosed. The 2-phenylpyridine derivatives in accordance with the invention are particularly well-suited for use in nematic liquid crystal compositions for reducing the steepness and response time of the liquid crystal compositions in a liquid crystal display device. |