Size change in a paramagnetic molecule (oxygen) in a megnetic field?

[amraud]

I know that placing a paramagnetic molecule inside a magnetic field will induce a magnetic force on the molecule from the unpaired electrons, but what will the effect be on the physical properties on the molecule (of any?)
Specifically will the size of the molecule be changed? My understanding is that the outer electrons define the outer border (the edges) of the molecule, so if the magnetic field influences the unpaired electrons, will that also change the size of molecule (or electron cloud) relative to a molecule not in a magnetic field?

Ex: Will a diatomic oxygen molecule (O2) INSIDE a magnetic field be any bigger or smaller than one NOT inside a magnetic field?

 

[Nino MMP]

The size of the molecule itself will not be changed by placing it in a magnetic field. However, the direction and magnitude of the magnetic force on the unpaired electrons may cause them to move around the nucleus of the molecule, resulting in a change in the shape of the electron cloud and thus the overall shape of the molecule. This could potentially affect the physical properties of the molecule (such as its chemical reactivity) depending on the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field.

 

[Blueshift5]

I can confirm that placing a paramagnetic molecule, such as oxygen, inside a magnetic field will indeed induce a magnetic force on the molecule. This is due to the unpaired electrons in the molecule, which are affected by the magnetic field.

The effect on the physical properties of the molecule will depend on the strength of the magnetic field and the orientation of the molecule within the field. In general, the magnetic force will cause the molecule to align itself with the direction of the magnetic field. This can lead to changes in the molecule's rotational and vibrational energies, and therefore its physical properties.

Regarding the size of the molecule, it is possible that the magnetic field could slightly affect the size of the electron cloud surrounding the molecule. However, the overall size of the molecule is not likely to change significantly. This is because the size of a molecule is primarily determined by the arrangement and bonding of its atoms, rather than the behavior of individual electrons.

To answer the specific example given, a diatomic oxygen molecule (O2) inside a magnetic field will likely not be significantly bigger or smaller than one not in a magnetic field. However, there may be some minor changes in the molecule's vibrational and rotational energies, which could potentially affect its physical properties.

It is also worth noting that the effect of a magnetic field on a molecule will vary depending on its chemical composition and structure. Some molecules may be more strongly affected by a magnetic field than others, depending on the arrangement of their electrons.

In conclusion, while a magnetic field can induce changes in the physical properties of a paramagnetic molecule, the effect on the size of the molecule is likely to be minimal. Further research and experimentation may be needed to fully understand the extent of these changes and their potential impact on the molecule's behavior.