Tutorial: a beginner's guide to interpreting magnetic susceptibility data with the Curie-Weiss law

Magnetic susceptibility measurements are often the first characterization tool that researchers turn to when beginning to assess the magnetic nature of a newly discovered material. Breakthroughs in instrumentation have made the collection of high quality magnetic susceptibility data more accessible than ever before. However, the analysis of susceptibility data remains a common challenge for newcomers to the field of magnetism. While a comprehensive treatment of the theoretical aspects of magnetism are found in numerous excellent textbooks, there is a gap at the point of practical application. We were inspired by this obstacle to put together this guide to the analysis and interpretation of magnetic susceptibility data, with an emphasis on materials that exhibit Curie-Weiss paramagnetism. Magnetic susceptibility measurements are an integral technique used across chemistry, physics and materials science; however, while straightforward to perform, interpretation of the data is often not. Here, the authors provide a basic guide to help newcomers interpret magnetic susceptibility data outlining examples based around the Curie-Weiss law that are ideal for those wishing to learn the basics of this method.

Automated summary

Magnetic susceptibility measurements are crucial in assessing the magnetic nature of newly discovered materials. While collecting high quality data has become more accessible, the analysis of the data remains a challenge for newcomers. This guide focuses on materials exhibiting Curie-Weiss paramagnetism and provides a basic understanding of magnetic susceptibility data analysis and interpretation.