The Bolztmann equation tells us that N-/N+ = e-DE/kT
Where N-/N+ is the ratio of spins in the upper to those in the lower spin states. The MRI signal is proportional to ( N+ - N- ), and
( N+ - N- ) = [1 - N-/N+ ] / [1 + N-/N+].
Taking only Boltzmann statistics into account and assuming that T=310K (body temperature):
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In calculating the relative signals, we must take into account the natural abundances of the isotopes (NISO). In calculating the relative signals from the body we must also include the biological abundances (NBIO).
Signal = k NISO NBIO (N+ - N-)
In this euation, k is a proportionality constant.
| NISO | NBIO | |||
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| 99.98 | 0.63 |
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100 | 0.00041 |
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100 | 0.0024 |
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Therefore, of the three nuclei, hydrogen will have the best signal. Of the two field strengths, 4.7 T will have the better signal. The signal will be proportional to the gyromagnetic ratio and the field strength.