PARAMAGNETIC Meaning and
Definition
-
Paramagnetic is an adjective that describes a substance's ability to become weakly magnetized when subjected to an external magnetic field. The term is derived from the Greek words "para," meaning alongside or beside, and "magnet," referring to a material that attracts iron or produces a magnetic field.
In the realm of physics and chemistry, paramagnetic materials have unpaired electrons, which means that there is an odd number of electrons in their outermost energy level. These unpaired electrons possess a spin that generates a tiny magnetic moment, resulting in the substance being attracted to an external magnetic field. However, unlike ferromagnetic materials, which retain their magnetization even when the external field is removed, paramagnetic materials lose their magnetization once the external magnetic field is no longer present.
Paramagnetism arises due to the incomplete pairing of electrons in an atom or molecule, leading to a partial alignment of their magnetic fields. Examples of paramagnetic materials include oxygen, aluminum, chromium, and copper. These substances exhibit weak attraction to magnetic fields and can be demonstrated by aligning a paramagnetic sample parallel to the magnetic field lines.
In scientific research and industrial applications, paramagnetic materials find various uses. They are employed in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines to enhance image contrast by providing contrast agents. Additionally, they are utilized in electronic devices, such as transformers and microwave devices, where specific magnetic properties are necessary. Overall, paramagnetism is a phenomenon that plays a crucial role in many scientific disciplines and technological advancements.
-
Having the property of paramagnetism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
A term applied to bodies which are attracted by both poles of the magnet; magnetic, as opposed to diamagnetic.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PARAMAGNETIC
Etymology of PARAMAGNETIC
The word "paramagnetic" is derived from the combination of two elements: "para-" and "magnetic".
The prefix "para-" comes from the Greek word "pará", meaning "beside" or "beyond". In scientific terminology, "para-" is often used to indicate a similarity or resemblance to something.
The term "magnetic" originates from the Greek word "magnētis lithos", which refers to a mineral called "magnetite" found in Magnesia, a region in ancient Greece. The term was later adapted to describe the properties of certain materials that exhibit magnetic behavior.
When combined, "para-" and "magnetic" form the word "paramagnetic", which describes materials that are weakly attracted to magnetic fields. These substances possess a small, positive magnetic susceptibility and are influenced by external magnetic fields, but do not retain their magnetic properties once the field is removed.
Similar spelling words for PARAMAGNETIC
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
