neel point
C2Technical/Scientific
Definition
Meaning
The specific temperature below which a paramagnetic material becomes antiferromagnetic.
In physics and materials science, the Néel point (or Néel temperature) is a critical temperature marking a phase transition from paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic ordering, named after Nobel laureate Louis Néel. It is a fundamental property of antiferromagnetic materials, analogous to the Curie point for ferromagnets.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used in condensed matter physics, materials science, and magnetism research. It is a specific scientific term, not a general vocabulary word. The diacritic mark (accent aigu) in 'Néel' is sometimes omitted in English-language texts, though the term is a proper eponym.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage or meaning. Both varieties use the term identically in technical contexts. Spelling of accompanying text follows regional conventions (e.g., 'behaviour' vs. 'behavior').
Connotations
Purely technical with no regional connotations.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Exclusively used in specialised academic and technical publications. Identical frequency across both varieties within relevant fields.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The Néel point of [material] is [temperature].[Material] has a Néel point of [temperature].Below its Néel point, [material] becomes antiferromagnetic.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Core term in physics, materials science, and engineering papers discussing magnetic properties of materials.
Everyday
Never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Essential term in research and development involving magnetic materials, data storage, spintronics, and cryogenics.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- The Néel-point transition was sharp.
American English
- The Neel-point transition was sharp.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Scientists study the Néel point to understand magnetic materials.
- The alloy's antiferromagnetic ordering, stable below its Néel point of 250 K, is crucial for the device's function.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of Nobel Laureate Louis NÉEL and the point (temperature) where magnetic moments say 'No' (Né) to lining up parallel, preferring an alternating pattern.
Conceptual Metaphor
A tipping point or threshold (from disordered to ordered magnetic state).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation as 'точка Нееля' might be unfamiliar; the standard Russian term is 'температура Нееля' or 'точка Нееля'.
- Do not confuse with 'Кюри точка' (Curie point), which is for ferromagnets.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'Neal point' or 'Neal point'.
- Omitting the accent: 'Neel point' is common but 'Néel point' is more accurate.
- Confusing it with the Curie temperature.
- Using it as a general term for any critical temperature.
Practice
Quiz
What does the Néel point specifically describe?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Curie point is the temperature above which a ferromagnetic material loses its permanent magnetism. The Néel point is the temperature below which a paramagnetic material becomes antiferromagnetic.
In English-language scientific texts, diacritics from borrowed proper names are sometimes omitted for simplicity in typesetting or due to stylistic choices, though the original form 'Néel' is more accurate.
It is a fundamental concept in condensed matter physics, materials science, magnetism research, and related engineering fields like spintronics and data storage technology.
Chromium (Cr) has a Néel point of 308 K (35 °C), which is unusually high and close to room temperature, making it a significant subject of study.