Paramagnetism: Nitrogen and Oxygen
A magnet is shown to strongly attract a pair of metal tongs. The magnet has no visible effect on liquid nitrogen, but when pale blue liquid oxygen is poured near the poles of the magnet, it shows definite attraction.
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Keywords
paramagnetism, magnetic properties, electronic structure, periodic table, bonding
Multimedia
Introduction
_Play
movie (7 seconds, .4 MB)
A very powerful permanent magnet holds a pair of steel forceps tightly.
Nitrogen
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movie (19 seconds, 1.2 MB)
When colorless liquid nitrogen is poured between the poles of the magnet, the liquid nitrogen does not stick to the magnet poles.
Oxygen
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movie (19 seconds, 1.2 MB)
When pale blue liquid oxygen is used, however, a different behavior is observed. The oxygen sticks between the poles of the magnet until it vaporizes away, showing that the liquid oxygen is paramagnetic, while liquid nitrogen was not.
Discussion
Additional still images for this topic
Demonstration Notes: Warnings, Safety Information, etc.
Exam and Quiz Questions
1. Is liquid nitrogen paramagnetic? Use evidence from the video to support your answer.
2. Is liquid oxygen paramagnetic? Use evidence from the video to support your answer.