Spin Choreography: Basic Steps in High Resolution NMR

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, a technique widely used for structure determination by chemists and biochemists, is based on the detection of tiny radio signals emitted by the nucleus of an atom when immersed in a strong magnetic field. Every chemical substance gives rise to a recognizable NMR signature closely related to its molecular structure. This comprehensive account adopts an accessible, pictorial approach to teach the fundamental principles of high resolution NMR. Mathematical formalism is used sparingly, and everyday analogies are used to provide insight into the physical behaviour of nuclear spins. The first three chapters set out the basic tools for understanding the rest of the book. Each of the remaining chapters provides a self- contained reference to a specific theme, for example spin echoes, and traces the way it influences our understanding of high resolution NMR methodology. Spin Choreography provides a clear and an authoritative introduction to the fundamental principles of high resolution NMR, which will appeal to all practitioners who wish to master this complex but fascinating subject. The book will also serve as supplementary reading for upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses on spectroscopy and physical methods.

Professor R Freeman, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW tel: 01223 336450; fax: 01223 336362; email: rf110@cam.ac.uk