How do MRIs see inside our bodies, in 3D? (with Claire Caballero)

About this episode

The episode explores how MRIs utilize NMR technology to create 3D images of the brain and differentiate between tissue and fluid.

MRIs are loud. They’re huge. They’re magnetic. But what are they actually doing? This week, we bring Claire back to help us connect the dots between NMR (yes, organic chem flashbacks) and MRI. How does a technique built on tiny hydrogen protons turn into a 3D image of your brain? How can it tell the difference between tissue and fluid? Why can’t you bring metal anywhere near the machine?

People in this episode

Guest: Claire Caballero

Topics covered

• MRI
• NMR
• hydrogen protons
• 3D imaging
• tissue differentiation

Keywords

• magnetic resonance imaging
• organic chemistry
• medical imaging

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