Analyzing the Setup
Welcome to a classic challenge from the Solid State chapter! We are presented with a matching problem that tests our memory and understanding of the magnetic properties of solids.
On one side, we have four distinct magnetic behaviors: Diamagnetism, Ferrimagnetism, Paramagnetism, and Antiferromagnetism. On the other side, we have four chemical compounds: MnO, O2, NaCl, and Fe3O4.
Our goal is to logically pair each property with its textbook example. Let's break them down one by one.
Diamagnetism
The Power of Pairs
Let's start with Diamagnetism. A substance is diamagnetic when all of its electrons are perfectly paired up. Because there are no unpaired electrons, these substances are weakly repelled by external magnetic fields.
Looking at our list, Sodium Chloride (NaCl) is the perfect fit. In NaCl, the sodium ion (Na+) has lost its valence electron to achieve a stable neon core, and the chloride ion (Cl−) has gained an electron to achieve an argon core.
Both ions have completely filled, paired electron shells. Therefore, NaCl is diamagnetic, and we can confidently match A with 3.
Paramagnetism
The Unpaired Attraction
Next, we move to Paramagnetism. Paramagnetic substances contain one or more unpaired electrons. These unpaired spins create tiny magnetic dipoles that align with an external magnetic field, causing a weak attraction.
If you recall the Molecular Orbital Theory (MOT) from Chemical Bonding, the oxygen molecule (O2) is a famous exception to the Lewis dot structure. Despite having an even number of total electrons, O2 has two unpaired electrons residing in its degenerate π∗ antibonding orbitals.
This makes O2 paramagnetic. Thus, we match C with 2.
Ferrimagnetism
The Unequal Alignment
Now, let's tackle Ferrimagnetism. In ferrimagnetic substances, the magnetic domains (or moments) are aligned in both parallel and anti-parallel directions, but in unequal numbers.
Because the opposing moments do not perfectly cancel each other out, the substance retains a net magnetic moment, though it is weaker than true ferromagnetism.
The most iconic textbook example of a ferrimagnetic substance is magnetite, or iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4). Therefore, we match B with 4.
Antiferromagnetism
The Perfect Cancellation
Finally, we have Antiferromagnetism. In these materials, the magnetic moments are aligned in a perfectly alternating parallel and anti-parallel pattern.
Because there are an equal number of moments pointing in opposite directions, they completely cancel each other out, resulting in a net magnetic moment of exactly zero.
Manganese(II) oxide (MnO) is the classic example of this behavior. The spins of the Mn2+ ions perfectly oppose one another in the crystal lattice. So, we match D with 1.
Final Calculation
Let's compile our logical deductions into a final sequence:
- A (Diamagnetism) → 3 (NaCl)
- B (Ferrimagnetism) → 4 (Fe3O4)
- C (Paramagnetism) → 2 (O2)
- D (Antiferromagnetism) → 1 (MnO)
Our final matching sequence is A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1. Scanning through the given options, we find that this exact combination corresponds to Option (c).
Mastering these standard examples is a surefire way to secure quick marks in your exams!