NMR spectroscopy

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy is the name given to the technique which exploits the magnetic properties of nuclei. This phenomenon and its origins is detailed in a separate section on Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).

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Many areas of information can be obtained from this single phenomenon. In its simplest form NMR allows identification of individual atoms in a pure molecule. Much like using infrared spectroscopy to identify functional groups, analysis of a 1D NMR spectrum tells the scientist what atom environments (like a methyl proton), and in some cases how many atoms of each type, exist within the sample. NMR is based in quantum mechanical properties of nuclei, and as such is very reliable, predictable and reproducible.

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NMR Spectroscopy is much more powerful than this everyday usage. It can be used to study mixtures of analytes; to understand dynamic effects such as change in temperature and reaction mechanisms; it can be used in the solution and solid state; and critically it is an invaluable tool in understanding protein and nucleic acid structure and function.

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