Magnetic momentum alignment and precession

In summary, the lecture notes on paramagnetism and diamagnetism state that the effects of diamagnetism and paramagnetism cancel each other out according to van Vleck's critical consideration, where the movement of an electron around the nucleus results in momentum alignment due to torque. However, the presence of Larmor precession makes it difficult to fully understand the process. It appears that the notes are attempting to explain a quantum mechanical calculation using a classical approach.
  • #1
aleees
1
0
In my lecture notes on paramagnetism and diamagnetism is stated that "according to van vleck critical considering an electron in motion around the nucleus diamagnetic and paramagnetic effect compensate (classical)"
The proof following takes the intrinsic momentum related to L as the momentum that in paramagnetism would "line up" due to the torque.
My question is, how can i have momentum alignment if there is larmor precession?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
From what you wrote it is difficult to understand exactly what is going on, but it sounds like your notes are trying to give a hand waving classical argument to a quantum mechanical calculation.
 

1. What is magnetic momentum alignment and precession?

Magnetic momentum alignment and precession refers to the behavior of magnetic moments, or the magnetic properties of subatomic particles, in the presence of an external magnetic field. This phenomenon is important in understanding the behavior of materials in magnetic fields and is also used in various technologies such as MRI machines.

2. How does magnetic momentum alignment occur?

Magnetic momentum alignment occurs when the magnetic moments of individual particles align in the same direction in response to an external magnetic field. This alignment can be influenced by the strength and direction of the magnetic field, as well as the properties of the material.

3. What is the difference between magnetic momentum alignment and precession?

Magnetic momentum alignment refers to the alignment of magnetic moments in a specific direction, while precession refers to the movement of these aligned magnetic moments around an axis in response to an external magnetic field. Precession is often described as a spinning or wobbling motion.

4. What factors affect magnetic momentum alignment and precession?

The strength and direction of the external magnetic field, the properties of the material, and the temperature can all affect magnetic momentum alignment and precession. Additionally, the presence of other magnetic fields, such as those from neighboring particles, can also impact these phenomena.

5. How is magnetic momentum alignment and precession used in technology?

Magnetic momentum alignment and precession have various applications in technology, such as in MRI machines, which use the alignment and precession of hydrogen atoms to create images of the body. They are also used in data storage devices, such as hard drives, to store and retrieve information using the magnetic properties of materials.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
590
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
559
Replies
1
Views
645
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
989
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
20
Views
5K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
9
Views
3K
Back
Top