A Review of MR Physics: 3T versus 1.5T

This article illustrates changes in the underlying physics concepts related to increasing the main magnetic field from 1.5T to 3T. The effects of these changes on tissue constants and practical hardware limitations is discussed as they affect scan time, quality, and contrast. Changes in susceptibility artifacts, chemical shift artifacts, and dielectric effects as a result of the increased field strength are also illustrated. Based on these fundamental considerations, an overall understanding of the benefits and constraints of signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio changes between 1.5T and 3T MR systems is developed.