The Lindblad Form and the Reincarnation of Felix Bloch's Relaxation-Theory

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that classic magnetic resonance relaxation theories by Bloch and Hubbard align with modern Lindbladian master equations, reaffirming their relevance and connecting historical and contemporary approaches.

Contribution

It establishes the full agreement between classic relaxation theories and modern Lindbladian methods, highlighting the continued relevance of early magnetic resonance theories.

Findings

Classic theories agree with modern Lindbladian results.

Redfield's 1965 treatment is consistent with modern approaches.

Early contributions of Bloch and Hubbard remain relevant today.

Abstract

The relationship between the classic magnetic resonance density matrix relaxation theories of Bloch and Hubbard, and the modern Lindbladian master equation methods are explored. These classic theories are in full agreement with the latest results obtained by the modern methods. A careful scrutiny shows that this also holds true for Redfields later treatment, offered in 1965. The early contributions of Bloch and Hubbard to rotating frame relaxation theory are also highlighted. Taken together, these seminal efforts of Bloch and Hubbard can enjoy a new birth of contemporary relevance in magnetic resonance.