Physics
Spin-Lattice Relaxation
Quick fact
Spin-lattice relaxation is responsible for the 'T1' relaxation time in NMR experiments, which tells us how quickly spins lose energy and re-equilibrate with the lattice.
Why this is interesting
Have you ever wondered why nuclei in a magnetic field eventually return to their original state after being excited? It all starts with how they interact with the material around them.