A simple model for an interacting liquid of particles lacking an axis of rotational symmetry is proposed. The four order parameters necessary to describe an ordered phase are identified. An ensemble of such particles is described by a mean field theory. A phase diagram showing both uniaxial and biaxial phases results. The model predicts a phase diagram similar to that of the phenomenological model of Alben.

• Received 19 November 1973

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.10.1881