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Diamagnetism

χ_m < 0 (negative susceptibility); repelled by magnetic field
Quick Reference
Formula / Notationχ_m < 0 (negative susceptibility); repelled by magnetic field
Also Known AsDiamagnetic property, negative magnetic susceptibility, paired-electron magnetism

What is Diamagnetism?

A form of magnetism in which a material is weakly repelled by an external magnetic field. It arises from paired electrons whose magnetic moments cancel out. All substances have diamagnetic contributions, but diamagnetism is only observed when no unpaired electrons are present.

Formula & Notation

χ_m < 0 (negative susceptibility); repelled by magnetic field

Other Names / Synonyms: Diamagnetic property, negative magnetic susceptibility, paired-electron magnetism

Properties & Characteristics

Diamagnetism is the property of a substance in which all electrons are spin-paired, resulting in no net magnetic moment. Diamagnetic substances are weakly repelled by magnetic fields. All substances show some diamagnetism, but it is only observable when paramagnetism and ferromagnetism are absent (no unpaired electrons). The diamagnetic susceptibility χ_m is small and negative. Examples: He, Ne, H₂O, Cu, Zn, Bi.

Uses & Applications

Diamagnetism is exploited in magnetic levitation of diamagnetic materials (pyrolytic graphite, bismuth). In NMR spectroscopy, diamagnetic anisotropy of ring systems (aromatic ring current effects) causes characteristic chemical shift patterns. Diamagnetic susceptibility data is used to check electron pair assignments in coordination compounds.

Safety Information

Exposure to strong magnetic fields (MRI, NMR magnets) is generally safe for most people, but magnetic field forces on implanted ferromagnetic objects (pacemakers, metal fragments) can be hazardous. Cryogenic coolants (liquid He, N₂) for superconducting magnets present asphyxiation and cryogenic burn hazards.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Diamagnetism
Formula χ_m < 0 (negative susceptibility); repelled by magnetic field
Synonyms Diamagnetic property, negative magnetic susceptibility, paired-electron magnetism

Frequently Asked Questions

A form of magnetism in which a material is weakly repelled by an external magnetic field. It arises from paired electrons whose magnetic moments cancel out. All substances have diamagnetic contributions, but diamagnetism is only observed when no unpaired electrons are present.

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