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The magnetic moment of a diamagnetic atom is
A
Much greater than one
B
1
C
Between zero and one
D
Equal to zero
Detailed Solution
In a diamagnetic atom all the electrons are paired.
The orbital and spin magnetic moments of the electrons in each pair are equal and opposite, so they cancel completely.
The resultant (net) magnetic moment of the atom is therefore zero in the absence of an external field.
A small moment opposite to the field is induced only when an external field is applied, which is why such substances are feebly repelled.
Hence the magnetic moment of a diamagnetic atom is equal to zero.
The orbital and spin magnetic moments of the electrons in each pair are equal and opposite, so they cancel completely.
The resultant (net) magnetic moment of the atom is therefore zero in the absence of an external field.
A small moment opposite to the field is induced only when an external field is applied, which is why such substances are feebly repelled.
Hence the magnetic moment of a diamagnetic atom is equal to zero.