Definition

Noun: * The temperature above which a ferromagnetic substance loses its ferromagnetism and becomes paramagnetic: This is a specific temperature point for a given material. Below this temperature, the material can be permanently magnetized. Above it, the material loses its permanent magnetism and only becomes weakly magnetic when placed in an external magnetic field.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Curie temperature of iron is approximately 770°C.
  • When heated above its Curie temperature, the magnet will lose its strength.
  • Scientists are researching materials with a higher Curie temperature for better electronic components.

Advanced Usage

• "To exceed/pass the Curie temperature": To heat a material beyond this critical point.
  • If the alloy exceeds its Curie temperature, its magnetic properties will change fundamentally.
• The concept is central in physics, materials science, and geology (e.g., studying the magnetic history of rocks).

Variants and Related Words

• Curie point (noun): A fully synonymous term for Curie temperature.
  • The Curie point is a key property for magnetic data storage media.
• Ferromagnetic (adj): Describes a material that can exhibit strong, permanent magnetism (behavior below the Curie temperature).
• Paramagnetic (adj): Describes a material that is only weakly attracted to a magnet and loses its magnetism when the external field is removed (behavior above the Curie temperature).

Synonyms

• Curie point: The direct synonym.
• Magnetic transition temperature: A more descriptive technical term.

Related Phrases/Concepts

• Magnetic ordering: The alignment of magnetic moments in a material, which is lost at the Curie temperature.
• Phase transition: The Curie temperature marks a type of phase transition from a ferromagnetic to a paramagnetic state.

Noun

1. the temperature above which a ferromagnetic substance loses its ferromagnetism and becomes paramagnetic