Paramagnetic — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Q: What is the formula for Paramagnetic?

The formula or notation for Paramagnetic is: χ_m > 0; unpaired electrons; μ = √(n(n+2)) BM (n = unpaired electrons)

Formula / Notation	χ_m > 0; unpaired electrons; μ = √(n(n+2)) BM (n = unpaired electrons)
Also Known As	Paramagnetic property, magnetic susceptibility χ>0, paramagnetism

What is Paramagnetic?

Describes materials with one or more unpaired electrons that are weakly attracted to a magnetic field. Paramagnetic species align their unpaired electron spins with an external field. Oxygen (O₂) is paramagnetic, which was correctly predicted by molecular orbital theory.

Formula & Notation

χ_m > 0; unpaired electrons; μ = √(n(n+2)) BM (n = unpaired electrons)

Other Names / Synonyms: Paramagnetic property, magnetic susceptibility χ>0, paramagnetism

Properties & Characteristics

Paramagnetism is the property of a substance that has one or more unpaired electrons, resulting in a net magnetic moment. Paramagnetic substances are weakly attracted to external magnetic fields. The magnetic moment (μ) in Bohr magnetons (BM) is μ = √(n(n+2)), where n is the number of unpaired electrons. Paramagnetism is temperature-dependent (Curie's law: χ ∝ 1/T). Examples: O₂ (2 unpaired e⁻, confirmed by MO theory), Cu²⁺, Fe³⁺, Mn²⁺ (5 unpaired e⁻).

Uses & Applications

Paramagnetic properties are used in: determining the number of unpaired electrons in transition metal complexes (magnetic susceptibility measurements), designing MRI contrast agents (Gd³⁺ with 7 unpaired e⁻ gives strong paramagnetic relaxation enhancement), EPR/ESR spectroscopy (detecting paramagnetic species in catalytic cycles), and in understanding oxygen's reactivity.

Safety Information

Strongly paramagnetic substances in bulk (Fe, Ni, Co) are attracted by MRI magnets and can become dangerous projectiles. Liquid oxygen (paramagnetic) is attracted to magnetic fields. Paramagnetic contrast agents (Gd³⁺) carry nephrotoxicity risk and can cause NSF in renal patients.

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

Key Facts

Term Paramagnetic

Formula χ_m > 0; unpaired electrons; μ = √(n(n+2)) BM (n = unpaired electrons)

Index All "P" terms

Synonyms Paramagnetic property, magnetic susceptibility χ>0, paramagnetism

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paramagnetic?

Describes materials with one or more unpaired electrons that are weakly attracted to a magnetic field. Paramagnetic species align their unpaired electron spins with an external field. Oxygen (O₂) is paramagnetic, which was correctly predicted by molecular orbital theory.

What is Paramagnetic used for?

Is Paramagnetic hazardous?

What is the formula for Paramagnetic?

More "P" Terms

P-type Semiconductor Pairing Pairing Energy Palladium Pd Parachor [P] = M(γ)^(1/4) / (ρ_L - ρ_V) Paramagnetism Partial Ionic Character % ionic = (1 - e^(-Δχ²/4)) × 100% Partial Pressure Partial Pressure p_i = x_i × P_total; P_total = Σp_i Particulate Matter Parts Per Million ppm = mg/L (water) or mg/kg; = (mass solute/mass solution) × 10⁶ Pauli Exclusion Principle

View all "P" terms →