Can Strontium's Paramagnetism Be Explained by Its Electron Configuration?

In summary, magnetism is a phenomenon where certain materials have the ability to attract or repel other materials due to the alignment of electron spin within the material. Electron spin is an intrinsic property of electrons and refers to the directional rotation of an electron around its axis. It is responsible for creating magnetic moments and can be temporarily or permanently aligned. Some practical applications of magnetism and electron spin include compasses, electric motors, MRI machines, and data storage devices. They are also used in research for studying materials and particles at the atomic level.
  • #1
oxnume
20
0
From what I've learned atoms with unpaired electrons are paramagnetic and those without are diamagnetic. Strontium has electron configuration of [Kr] 5s^2 so why is it paramagnetic?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Where did you get the information about para- / diamagnetism of the elements from. Are you sure they refer to isolated atoms (e.g. in the gas phase) and not to the metal? The magnetic properties of metals is a wholely different story.
 

Related to Can Strontium's Paramagnetism Be Explained by Its Electron Configuration?

What is magnetism?

Magnetism is a phenomenon where certain materials, such as iron and nickel, have the ability to attract or repel other materials. This is due to the alignment of electron spin within the material, which creates a magnetic field.

What is electron spin?

Electron spin is an intrinsic property of electrons, meaning it is a fundamental aspect of their nature. It refers to the directional rotation of an electron around its axis, which can be either clockwise or counterclockwise.

How does electron spin relate to magnetism?

Electron spin is responsible for creating the magnetic moments within materials. When the spins of electrons are aligned, they create a magnetic field that can attract or repel other magnetic materials.

What is the difference between paramagnetism, diamagnetism, and ferromagnetism?

Paramagnetism occurs when the spins of electrons are randomly oriented, but can be temporarily aligned in the presence of a magnetic field. Diamagnetism occurs when the spins of electrons are paired and cancel each other out, making the material repel magnetic fields. Ferromagnetism occurs when the spins of electrons are permanently aligned, creating a strong and stable magnetic field.

What are some applications of magnetism and electron spin?

Magnetism and electron spin have many practical applications, including in compasses, electric motors, MRI machines, and data storage devices such as hard drives and credit cards. They are also used in research for studying materials and particles at the atomic level.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
902
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Chemistry
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
983
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
1
Views
3K
Back
Top