Researcher ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4813-8236

Graduation Year

2025

Date of Submission

12-2024

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Physics

Reader 1

Janet Sheung

Reader 2

Bethany Caulkins

Reader 3

none.

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Terms of Use for work posted in Scholarship@Claremont.

Rights Information

©2024 Isaac L Blacklow

Abstract

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance is a powerful, non-invasive technique that provides detailed insights into molecular structures by taking advantage of the behavior of nuclear spins in homogenous magnetic fields. My research uses the TeachSpin Earth’s Field NMR apparatus to explore foundational NMR concepts, such as spin dynamics, relaxation processes, as well as the experimental challenges of signal acquisition. The experiments highlight the critical role of spin-½ nuclei in gathering high-resolution NMR signals and show the significance of relaxation mechanisms such as spin-lattice (T1) and transverse (T2) relaxation. Comparing between indoor and outdoor setups underscores the challenges of calibrating NMR experiments, particularly the impact of non-homogenous magnetic fields on signal integrity. The findings also reveal the importance of tools like Helmholtz coils in enhancing the precision and clarity of indoor measurements. Through these investigations, this study reinforces the interdisciplinary value of NMR as a teaching tool and its role in creating a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and the scientific process in undergraduate research.

This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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