Advanced Molecular Magnetism

Advanced Molecular Magnetism provides a rigorous overview of the magnetic properties of molecular and extended inorganic systems. The book begins by introducing the fundamentals of magnetic data recording and analysis, establishing exchange interactions as a foundational concept before progressing to more advanced topics. Key areas of focus include exchange interactions involving both d- and f-block elements, the role of magnetic anisotropy, single-molecule magnets, and spin crossover phenomena. The text emphasizes the correlation of magnetic property analysis with complementary techniques such as UV-Vis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. A thorough overview of electronic energy levels in transition metal complexes is provided, covering electronic terms, multiplets, and Zeeman splitting. The interface between quantum mechanics and macroscopic thermodynamic properties is explored through statistical thermodynamics. The book reviews the major types of magnetic materials—diamagnetic, paramagnetic, ferromagnetic, and antiferromagnetic—with a focus on their underlying principles and real-world examples. Methods for deriving magnetochemical formulae for Curie paramagnets, zero-field splitting systems, T- and E-term systems, and pure multiplet systems are clearly presented, alongside practical guidance for magnetic data collection and analysis. Special attention is given to the magnetism of f-elements and the unique properties of single-molecule magnets, as well as to the correct description of many-electron states in both free atoms and those influenced by crystal fields. The Zeeman effect is introduced, followed by in-depth chapters on paramagnetic materials exhibiting zero-field splitting and exchange interactions of isotropic and anisotropic kind. Worked examples show experimental data for different kinds of interactions in transition metal complexes along with their modelling using advanced theoretical tools. The synergy between molecular magnetism, electron spectroscopy, and EPR is also highlighted throughout. One important objective of this book is to help readers with more marginal backgrounds in quantum mechanics understand the current state of the art of molecular magnetism. Advanced Molecular Magnetism is written primarily for inorganic, physical or computational/theoretical chemists, as well as being of use to condensed matter physicists and materials scientists with an interest in the magnetic properties of transition metal and lanthanide complexes.