How Do You Spell PARAMAGNETISM?

1. Paramagnetism is a physical phenomenon exhibited by certain materials that possess unpaired electron spins within their atomic or molecular structure. In these materials, the magnetic moments associated with the unpaired electrons align themselves when subjected to an external magnetic field, resulting in a net magnetization in the same direction as the applied field. Unlike ferromagnetism, wherein the alignment of magnetic moments persists even after the external field is removed, paramagnetism occurs only in the presence of the field.

   The behavior of paramagnetic materials can be explained by the fact that the unpaired electrons are more likely to align with an external magnetic field due to their intrinsic magnetic properties. This alignment increases the overall magnetic susceptibility of the material, allowing it to become weakly attracted to magnets.

   The paramagnetic response is characterized by its dependence on temperature. As temperature increases, the thermal energy disrupts the alignment of the electron spins, leading to a decrease in the strength of the paramagnetic effect. Therefore, paramagnetic materials typically exhibit stronger paramagnetism at lower temperatures.

   Paramagnetism finds application in various fields, such as chemistry, biology, and materials science. It is utilized in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), where contrast agents containing paramagnetic substances are used to enhance the visibility of specific tissues and organs. Furthermore, it is employed in the analysis of molecular structures and magnetic materials, as well as in the study of magnetic properties and behaviors.

2. The property of being magnetic, as shown by assuming a position parallel with a line drawn between the two poles of a magnet.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Magnetism, as opposed to diamagnetism.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PARAMAGNETISM

The word "paramagnetism" is derived from the merger of two terms - "para" and "magnetism".

The prefix "para-" comes from the Greek word "para", meaning "beside" or "alongside". In the context of magnetism, "para-" is used to indicate a material that is only weakly attracted to a magnetic field.

The term "magnetism" refers to the property of certain materials to attract or repel each other due to the presence of magnetic fields. It originates from the Latin word "magnes", which is derived from the Greek word "magnes lithos" meaning "stone from Magnesia", a region in ancient Greece where magnetic minerals were found.

Therefore, the word "paramagnetism" combines the prefix "para-" (indicating weak attraction) with "magnetism", describing the property of weak attraction of certain materials to magnetic fields.

Similar spelling words for PARAMAGNETISM