Question

Paramagnetic substances are magnetised in a magnetic field in the same direction. Paramagnetism is due to the presence of

• A. one or more unpaired electrons
• B. all paired electrons
• C. permanent spin and orbital motion
• D. parallel and anti-parallel spins in equal number

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Paramagnetic materials have a small, positive susceptibility to magnetic fields. These materials are slightly attracted by a magnetic field and the material does not retain the magnetic properties when the external field is removed. Paramagnetic properties are due to the presence of some unpaired electrons, and from the realignment of the electron paths caused by the external magnetic field.