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quantum123
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Why is iron magnetic and copper is not?
quantum123 said:Why is iron magnetic and copper is not?
Iron is magnetic because it has unpaired electrons in its outermost energy level, which allows it to easily align its magnetic moments. Copper, on the other hand, has all of its electrons paired up, making it non-magnetic.
Iron has an atomic structure with 26 electrons, 8 of which are in its outermost energy level. Of these 8 electrons, 2 are unpaired and can easily align their magnetic moments. Copper, on the other hand, has 29 electrons with all of them paired up in its outermost energy level, making it non-magnetic.
No, copper cannot be made magnetic as its atomic structure does not allow for unpaired electrons. However, it can be temporarily magnetized by placing it in a strong magnetic field, but it will lose its magnetism once removed from the field.
Iron is used in magnets because it has a higher magnetic susceptibility compared to copper. This means that iron is easier to magnetize and can create stronger magnetic fields.
Yes, temperature and impurities can also affect the magnetic properties of iron and copper. At high temperatures, both metals lose their magnetism. Additionally, impurities can disrupt the alignment of magnetic moments in iron, making it less magnetic.