Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: False
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Elemental nickel is a classic ferromagnetic metal alongside iron and cobalt. Recognizing ferromagnetic materials is essential for core selection, magnetic shielding, and actuator design.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Ferromagnetic materials have spontaneous magnetization due to exchange interactions and aligned domains. Nickel remains ferromagnetic at room temperature, becoming paramagnetic only above its Curie temperature. Therefore, the statement calling nickel “non-magnetic” at room temperature is false.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Simple magnet tests show strong attraction; nickel alloys are widely used in magnetic components (e.g., permalloy).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Nickel does not require sub-zero temperatures to be magnetic and is not non-magnetic merely due to form factor.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “non-magnetic” with “weakly magnetic” or assuming all stainless steels behave like nickel (many stainless grades are austenitic and weakly magnetic, but that does not generalize to elemental nickel).
Final Answer:
False
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