The Physics of MRI Machines in Medicine

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a tool for peering inside the body.
It uses powerful superconducting magnets to align hydrogen nuclei in tissues.
Radio waves knock these nuclei out of alignment, creating detectable signals.
The signals reveal detailed 3D images of organs, muscles, and the brain.
Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI uses no harmful ionizing radiation.
Different tissue types respond uniquely, allowing contrast in images.
Functional MRI (fMRI) maps brain activity by tracking blood flow changes.
Cooling with liquid helium keeps MRI magnets superconducting.
Gradients in the magnetic field help pinpoint exact locations in the body.
MRI revolutionized diagnostics, enabling non-invasive insight into human health.