Question

A Gouy balance is used to determine the magnetic susceptibility of a substance. A strong electromagnet is placed next to the sample, which is on a balance. If the sample is paramagnetic, the mass reading of the balance will increase when the field is switched on. Based on their electron configurations, predict whether these elements are paramagnetic or diamagnetic. He, Be, C, N

Answer 1

For atom is paramagnetic or diamagnetic, consider its electron configuration. If there are any unpaired electrons, the atom is paramagnetic.

For example, Fe is paramagnetic. Its electron configuration is [Ar]4s^2 3d^6. The 3d subshell has five orbitals, which can hold 2 electrons each. By using Hund's Rule, (filling each orbital with a single electron first) we see that there are four unpaired electrons. Therefore, iron is paramagnetic. Notice that it DOES have an even atomic number.

So, to answer your question:

N : Paramagnetic

He : Diamagnetic

C: Paramagnetic

Be: Diamagnetic