Magnetism basics – name the material that is lightly repelled by a magnetic field In materials classification by magnetic behavior, what do we call a substance that is weakly repelled by an applied magnetic field and exhibits a negative magnetic susceptibility?

Introduction:
All materials respond to magnetic fields, but the nature and magnitude of the response vary widely. Diamagnetism, paramagnetism, ferromagnetism, and ferrimagnetism describe characteristic behaviors. Understanding these categories is fundamental for selecting core materials, shielding, and sensor elements in electrical and electronic engineering.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Applied static or low-frequency magnetic field.
• Weak repulsion implies negative susceptibility (χ < 0).
• No permanent magnetic ordering at room temperature.

Concept / Approach:

Diamagnetic materials develop an induced magnetic moment opposite to the applied field due to orbital current effects, leading to weak repulsion and χ slightly below zero. Paramagnetic materials have χ slightly above zero and are weakly attracted; ferromagnets and ferrimagnets have strong positive susceptibility and may retain magnetization (hysteresis).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Canonical examples include bismuth, copper, and water—each shows slight repulsion in strong magnetic field gradients, consistent with diamagnetism.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

“Non-magnetic” is an imprecise colloquialism; paramagnetic and (ferro/ferri)magnetic materials are attracted, not repelled, by fields at room temperature.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming “non-magnetic” means no interaction at all; in reality, most substances are weakly dia- or paramagnetic.

Final Answer:

diamagnetic material