Question

Can a molecule with an odd number of electrons ever be diamagnetic? Explain why or why not.

Short answer

No matter how the molecular orbitals are arranged, an odd number of electrons can never be coupled. It will remain paramagnetic indefinitely.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of diamagnetic

A magnetic field repels diamagnetic materials because it induces an induced magnetic field in them in the opposite direction, resulting in a repulsive force. Magnetic fields, on the other hand, attract paramagnetic and ferromagnetic materials.

Explanation

For a molecule to be diamagnetic, it should not have any unpaired electrons. A molecule with an odd number of electrons will always have an unpaired electron, so it can never be diamagnetic.

Therefore, an odd number of electrons can never be connected, no matter how the molecular orbitals are structured. It will remain paramagnetic for the rest of its life.