Paramagnetism

The attracted materials form internally generated magnetic fields in the direction of the applied magnetic field. In contrast to this behaviour, diamagnetic materials are repelled by magnetic fields, thereby inducing magnetic fields in the direction opposite to that of the applied magnetic field.

Paramagnetic substances have a relative permeability that is slightly greater than 1 and are therefore considered weak ferrous magnets. The non-ferromagnetic materials can be divided into diamagnetic and paramagnetic materials.

Paramagnetic materials are most chemical elements and certain compounds. They have a relative magnetic permeability greater than or equal to 1 and therefore a positive magnetic susceptibility. As a result, magnetic fields attract these materials. The magnetic moment induced by the applied field is linear with the field strength and rather weak.