Question

Which of the following is paramagnetic?

Options

• O₂

• N₂

• H₂

• Li₂

Answer 1

O₂

Explanation:

Oxygen (O₂) is paramagnetic because it has two unpaired electrons in its molecular orbital configuration. The presence of unpaired electrons causes it to be attracted by a magnetic field. In contrast, N₂, H₂, and Li₂ molecules have all their electrons paired, making them diamagnetic (not attracted by a magnetic field).