Diamagnetism and permanent dipoles — true or false? “Diamagnetic materials do not possess permanent magnetic dipoles.”

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: True

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Magnetic classifications (dia-, para-, ferro-magnetism) hinge on whether a material has permanent magnetic dipoles and how it responds to an external magnetic field. Diamagnetism is a universal but weak effect present in all materials due to induced currents opposing the applied field.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Definition: Diamagnetic materials have negative magnetic susceptibility and no intrinsic permanent dipoles.
  • Small, linear response in weak fields.
  • Room-temperature, zero-bias conditions.



Concept / Approach:
In diamagnets, applied fields induce tiny orbital current loops that generate magnetization opposite to the applied field. This induced effect vanishes when the field is removed; there are no permanent unpaired moments as in paramagnets or ferromagnets. Hence the statement is true.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify property: χ < 0 and no permanent dipoles.Contrast with paramagnetism (unpaired spins → permanent dipoles, χ > 0).Conclude diamagnets lack permanent dipoles → statement true.



Verification / Alternative check:
Measured hysteresis for diamagnets shows negligible remanence and coercivity, consistent with absence of permanent dipoles.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“False” options contradict the definition. Temperature qualifiers or hysteresis prerequisites are unnecessary for this basic classification.



Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing weak ferromagnetism or paramagnetism with diamagnetism.



Final Answer:
True


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