• If an element has an ODD number of electrons, then it’s paramagnetic.
• If it has an EVEN number of electrons, then it can be either paramagnetic or diamagnetic; you have to fill out the electron configuration energy diagram to find out.
• Hint: Liquid oxygen (O2) is paramagnetic, liquid nitrogen (N2) is diamagnetic.
FAQs – frequently asked questions
Q: Since nitrogen has an odd number of electrons, doesn’t that mean it’s paramagnetic?