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.

Ca Cl Si Ar

Answer 1

Calcium (Ca) E.C is = [Ar] 4s2

Chlorine (Cl) E.C is = [Ne] 3s2 3p5

Silicon (Si) E.C. is = [Ne] 3s2 3p2

Argon (Ar) E.C. is = [Ne] 3s2 3p6

Paramagnetic property exihibited by the element having unpaired electrons in their outershell.

Here in this by seeing the electronic configuration, the elements Si and Cl are having lone pair of electron, Which will show paramagnetic property. Where as Ca and Ar are having completely filled s2 and p6 configurations respectively. Here there is no lope pair of electron. these won't show paramagnetic property.