Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Practice Test

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What would likely happen if TE is decreased while all other parameters remain constant?

SNR would increase
SNR would decrease
There would be no change
It would reduce scan time

The correct answer is: SNR would increase

If the echo time (TE) is decreased while all other parameters remain constant, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) would likely increase. This phenomenon occurs because a shorter TE allows for the collection of the echo signal at an earlier point in time when the transverse magnetization is at a higher level. Since the signal intensity is directly related to the amount of transverse magnetization present and this intensity decreases over time due to T2 relaxation, capturing the signal sooner results in a stronger echo. In magnetic resonance imaging, the T2 decay curve illustrates how quickly the transverse magnetization diminishes. By reducing TE, the SNR benefits from higher signal levels since less relaxation has occurred, leading to better contrast and detail in the resulting images. Thus, focusing on maximizing SNR is essential for ensuring high-quality scans, making this understanding vital for effective MRI practices.