Magnetic Properties in Relation to Chemical Constitution

Abstract

IN the recent letter by Prof. Lowry and Mr. Gilbert (NATURE, Jan. 19, p. 85) some interesting points are dealt with concerning the evidence afforded by magnetic data as to the chemical constitution of various compounds. The authors note that the fact that cupric sulphide, CuS, is diamagnetic suggests that this compound must be a cuprous compound with a double molecule rather than a cupric salt as previously supposed. They also mention that X-ray analysis has shown that iron pyrites must be a ferrous disulphide, Fe++&Smacr;-&Smacr;.