Question

Explain with one example each, the diamagnetic, paramagnetic and ferromagnetic substances.

Answer 1

1. The substances with all electrons paired, are weakly repelled by magnetic fields. Such substances are called as diamagnetic substances. In these substances, pairing of electrons balances the spins and hence, cancels their magnetic moments.
   e.g. N₂
2. The substances with unpaired electrons are weakly attracted by magnetic field. Such substances are called as paramagnetic substances. In these substances, the spinning of unpaired electron gives rise to a magnetic moment due to which it is attracted by a magnetic field. These substances exhibit magnetism in presence of an external magnetic field only. They lose magnetism when the external magnetic field is removed.
   e.g. Oxygen
3. The substances containing a large number of unpaired electrons are attracted strongly by the magnetic field. Such substances are called as ferromagnetic substances. These substances can be permanently magnetised. They retain magnetism even after the removal of an external magnetic field.
   e.g. Fe