Which imaging technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images of soft tissue?

The imaging technique that utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissue is MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging. This method is particularly effective for visualizing structures like the brain, muscles, and organs, as it provides high-resolution images without the use of ionizing radiation, which is a significant advantage over other imaging techniques, such as CT scans.

MRI works by aligning the protons in the body using a strong magnetic field. When radio waves are then applied, these protons are temporarily knocked out of alignment. As they return to their original alignment, they emit signals that are captured and processed to create detailed images of soft tissues. This capability makes MRI an essential tool in both clinical diagnostics and research settings for a variety of medical conditions.

In contrast, EEG measures electrical activity in the brain and is not used for imaging soft tissue. A CT scan primarily uses X-rays to produce images, which is not the same as the magnetic fields and radio waves utilized in MRI. fMRI, while also leveraging magnetic resonance, specifically measures brain activity by detecting changes associated with blood flow, thus serving a different purpose compared to standard MRI imaging.