Which diatomic molecule is described as diamagnetic due to the absence...
The hydrogen molecule (H2) is described as diamagnetic because it lacks unpaired electrons.
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Which diatomic molecule is described as diamagnetic due to the absence...
Hydrogen Molecule (H2)
Hydrogen molecule (H2) is described as diamagnetic due to the absence of unpaired electrons. Let's break down why this is the case:
Diamagnetic Property:
- Diamagnetic substances have all paired electrons, causing them to be slightly repelled by a magnetic field.
- In the case of the hydrogen molecule, each hydrogen atom contributes one electron to form a covalent bond, resulting in a shared pair of electrons between the two atoms.
- Since the electrons in the hydrogen molecule are paired, there are no unpaired electrons to create a magnetic field, making it diamagnetic.
Comparison with Other Options:
- Oxygen molecule (O2) has two unpaired electrons, which makes it paramagnetic rather than diamagnetic.
- Carbon molecule (C2) does not exist as a stable diatomic molecule in nature.
- Lithium molecule (Li2) has one unpaired electron, making it paramagnetic as well.
In conclusion, the hydrogen molecule (H2) is diamagnetic due to the absence of unpaired electrons, setting it apart from the other diatomic molecules mentioned in the options.