How does MRI work?

MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures.

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a medical imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures. The technology is based on the fact that the human body is largely made up of water molecules, which contain hydrogen atoms. When a person is placed inside an MRI machine, the machine creates a powerful magnetic field that causes the hydrogen atoms in the body to align in a particular direction.

The MRI machine then emits radio waves that cause the hydrogen atoms to absorb energy and flip their alignment. When the radio waves are turned off, the hydrogen atoms release the absorbed energy, which is detected by the MRI machine's sensors. This information is used to create a detailed image of the body's internal structures.

Different types of tissues in the body have different hydrogen atom densities, which affects the amount of energy they absorb and release. This allows the MRI machine to distinguish between different types of tissues and create detailed images of organs, bones, and other structures. MRI is a safe and non-invasive imaging technique that is widely used in medicine for diagnosis and research.