Orbitalmagnetismus

Orbitalmagnetismus refers to the magnetic dipole moment generated by the orbital motion of charged particles within an atom or molecule. When electrons orbit the nucleus of an atom, their movement constitutes an electric current. This current loop produces a magnetic field, and consequently, a magnetic dipole moment. The magnitude and direction of this orbital magnetic moment depend on the orbital angular momentum of the electrons.

In the context of atomic physics, the orbital magnetic dipole moment is quantized, meaning it can only take on discrete values. This quantization is directly related to the Bohr magneton, a fundamental unit of magnetic moment in atomic systems. The orbital magnetic moment contributes to the overall magnetic properties of a substance. While electron spin also contributes significantly to magnetism, the orbital component plays a crucial role in phenomena like orbital diamagnetism and paramagnetism.

The concept of orbitalmagnetismus is essential for understanding spectroscopy, particularly electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) where the interaction of magnetic moments with external magnetic fields is central. It also influences the behavior of materials in magnetic fields, impacting their technological applications. In some cases, such as in heavy elements, spin-orbit coupling can further modify the orbital magnetic moment.