Question

What is meant by ferrimagnetism? Give any two examples.

Answer 1

A ferrimagnetic material is one that has populations of atoms with opposing magnetic moments. The opposing moments are unequal and a spontaneous magnetization remains. This happens when the populations consist of different materials or ions (such as $F{e}^{2+}$ and $F{e}^{3+}$).

Ferrimagnetism is exhibited by ferrites and magnetic garnets. Example: magnetite (iron(II,III) oxide; $F{e}_3{O}_4$) and yttrium iron garnet are ferrimagnet.