Engineering definition
NMR is a non-destructive method to determine molecular configurations of a material. Briefly, NMR induces spin polarization in the nucleus of some atoms in a magnetic field through a radio frequency signal that can induce a transition between spin states, a detectable "spin flip." The corresponding signal is dependent on the chemical environment of the nucleus in a phenomenon known as chemical shift. These frequencies also react in measurable ways to other NMR-active nuclei, allowing identifiable connections between atoms in a molecule through spin-spin coupling.
Medical definition
NMR is the base technology for the innovation of MRI, which uses powerful magnetic fields and radio frequency pulses to image organs and soft tissues as well as bones. Although computed tomography (CT) benefits from higher resolution, it is not as effective at differentiating between healthy tissue and tumors. Unlike MRI, CT utilizes X-rays and ionizing radiation, albeit in a small dose.
Confusion
Although different terms are used to describe nuclear magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance imaging, both of these utilize the same technology.
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