Question

The property of diamagnetism is said to be present in all materials. Then, why are some materials paramagnetic or ferromagnetic?

Answer 1

We cannot say that paramagnetism and diamagnetism are both opposites.

Explanation:

• According to Lenz's law, in any material or compound with electrons is diamagnetic, since an applied magnetic field will cause an induced magnetic field in the material, which sets up a magnetic moment opposite to the applied field.
• The result of this is that diamagnetic materials are repelled slightly by an applied magnetic field.
• The unpaired electrons in the material is also paramagnetic because the unpaired electrons behaves like tiny magnets, aligning with the magnetic field, which means they are attracted to an applied magnetic field.
• Paramagnetic materials also have diamagnetism, but the paramagnetic effect more significant than the diamagnetic effect by at least 2 to 3 orders of magnitude.
• This has to be taken into consider for exact measurements of paramagnetic properties (diamagnetic correction) but is almost negligible for many purposes.