How Does NMR Actually Work? When molecules are placed in a strong magnetic field, the nuclei of some atoms will begin to behave like small magnets. ... The resonant frequencies of the nuclei are then measured and converted into an NMR spectrum that displays all of the right frequencies as peaks on a graph.

What is detected in NMR?

NMR results from specific magnetic properties of certain atomic nuclei. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy is widely used to determine the structure of organic molecules in solution and study molecular physics and crystals as well as non-crystalline materials.

How does nuclear magnetic resonance imaging work?

How does MRI work? MRIs employ powerful magnets which produce a strong magnetic field that forces protons in the body to align with that field. When a radiofrequency current is then pulsed through the patient, the protons are stimulated, and spin out of equilibrium, straining against the pull of the magnetic field.