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402-0538-16L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-ITET , D-PHYS

Introduction to Magnetic Resonance for Physicists

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Christian Degen

Does not take place this semester.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:54:58

Abstract

This course provides the fundamental principles of magnetic resonance and discusses its applications in physics and other disciplines.

Objective

Magnetic resonance is a textbook example of quantum mechanics that has made its way into numerous applications. It describes the response of nuclear and electronic spins to radio-frequency magnetic fields. The aim of this course is to provide the basic concepts of magnetic resonance while making connections of relevancy to other areas of science. After completing this course, students will understand the basic interactions of spins and how they are manipulated and detected. They will be able to calculate and simulate the quantum dynamics of spin systems. Examples of current-day applications in solid state physics, quantum information, magnetic resonance tomography, and biomolecular structure determination will also be integrated.

Content

Fundamentals and Applications of Magnetic Resonance - Historical Perspective - Bloch Equations - Quantum Picture of Magnetic Resonance - Spin Hamiltonian - Pulsed Magnetic Resonance - Spin Relaxation - Electron Paramagnetic Resonance and Ferromagnetic Resonance - Signal Detection - Modern Topics and Applications of Magnetic Resonance

Resources

Lecture Notes

Class Notes and Handouts

Literature

1) Charles Slichter, "Principles of Magnetic Resonance" 2) Anatole Abragam, "The Principles of Nuclear Magnetism"

General Information

Language: English
Levels: DR , MSC
Frequency: Every two years

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 20 minutes

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Introduction to Magnetic Resonance for Physicists Does not take place this semester.	No time listed	2 h weekly
exercise	Introduction to Magnetic Resonance for Physicists Does not take place this semester.	No time listed	1 h weekly

Offered In

Physics Master
- Electives
  - Electives: Physics and Mathematics
    - Selection: Solid State Physics
Doctoral Department of Physics (More Information at: )
- Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Courses (Please note that this is an INCOMPLETE list of courses.)
Quantum Engineering Master
- Electives (This is a selection of courses particularly suitable for the MSc QE. In agreement with the tutor, students may choose other courses from the ETH course catalogue.)