1
$\begingroup$

I'm working on an optics project that I'm using Fresnel Equation for Intensity. but I've got a question, is copper a non-magnetic ?

You know because in Fresnel Equation, for non-magnetic materials which their refractive index is a real number, the formula is more simple.

Thanks in advance

Improve this question
$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2
$\begingroup$

Copper is a diamagnetic material. Individual copper atoms have one unpaired electron in the valence shell, and thus might be considered paramagnetic, but when many copper atoms are combined into the bulk metal, their valence electrons are sent into a cloud that forms metallic bonds among the copper atoms, and the metal is diamagnetic. All the answers given to this similar question explain the diamagnetic nature of copper in more detail: Why is copper diamagnetic?

Although a diamagnetic material opposes a magnetic field in which it is placed, most interact only very weakly with a magnetic field. The diamagnetic property of copper metal is so weak that it is considered non-magnetic.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
5
  • $\begingroup$ What is a copper molecule? Metal complex? $\endgroup$
    – t0xic
    Commented Aug 1, 2015 at 17:51
  • $\begingroup$ if it's know as non-magnetic, why does it have an ( imaginary number ) as its refractive index? $\endgroup$
    – David 2000
    Commented Aug 1, 2015 at 18:38
  • $\begingroup$ @t0xic: Sorry, I meant only Cu, not a molecule. $\endgroup$
    – Ernie
    Commented Aug 1, 2015 at 18:44
  • $\begingroup$ The refractive index is alway a real number, as is the extinction coefficient. I think you have something crossed in your mind here?! $\endgroup$
    – t0xic
    Commented Aug 1, 2015 at 18:49
  • $\begingroup$ @David2000: I see only real numbers for the refractive index of copper: filmetrics.com/refractive-index-database/Cu/Copper $\endgroup$
    – Ernie
    Commented Aug 1, 2015 at 19:06

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.