What is diamagnetism?
1 Answer
Diamagnetism is a quantum mechanical effect where the lack of unpaired electrons allows for an induced magnetic field that repels an applied magnetic field. In other words, apply a magnetic field onto a diamagnetic substance and it slightly resists it.
This effect is generally weak, and if a substance is paramagnetic (has unpaired electrons), it usually will render the diamagnetism insignificant.
To determine diamagnetism:
- Write out the electron configuration.
- See if for any orbitals, the number of electrons is
#1# . - If so, the substance is paramagnetic. If not, it is diamagnetic.
(
Thus,
CHALLENGE: Can you see that