Diamagnetic materials have a
negative susceptibility, meaning they are repelled by a magnetic field. When a magnetic field is applied to a diamagnetic material, it creates tiny opposing magnetic moments in the material that work against the external magnetic field. This causes the material to experience a force that pushes it away from regions of stronger magnetic field.
Key points about diamagnetic materials:
- Susceptibility: The magnetic susceptibility (χ) of diamagnetic materials is negative and very small in magnitude (typically around \( -10^{-5} \) to \( -10^{-6} \)).
- Response to Magnetic Field: Diamagnetic materials produce a weak magnetic field in the opposite direction to the applied external field. This weak opposing field leads to a repulsive effect.
- Examples of Diamagnetic Materials: Some common diamagnetic materials include:
- Bismuth (Bi)
- Graphite
- Copper (Cu)
- Water
- Effect on Magnetic Field: In the presence of a magnetic field, diamagnetic materials will slightly decrease the strength of the magnetic field within them.
- No Permanent Magnetism: Unlike ferromagnetic or paramagnetic materials, diamagnetic materials don't retain any magnetism once the external field is removed.
In simple terms, diamagnetic materials "push away" magnetic fields, and their susceptibility is negative, meaning they tend to oppose the magnetic field applied to them.