| abstract |
The present invention is directed to a ferroelectric liquid crystal composition having quick response properties and assuming a smectic C* phase in an extensive temperature range inclusive of room temperature, and an optical switching element having a quick response property containing this composition. n The ferroelectric liquid crystal composition is here disclosed which comprises at least one chiral compound (liquid crystal component A) having an optical activity site represented by the formula (A) ##STR1## wherein R 1 is a straight-chain or branched alkyl group having 2 to 18 carbon atoms or a straight-chain or branched alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, and * indicates an asymmetric carbon atom, n and at least one non-chiral compound (liquid crystal component B) having a smectic C phase (hereinafter referred to as "S C phase"; which shall apply in the following), an S I phase, an S F phase, an S G phase, an S H phase, an S J phase or an S K phase. |