What is the impact of reducing bandwidth on SNR?

Reducing bandwidth has a direct effect on the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in MRI. When the bandwidth is decreased, it allows the system to focus more on the desired signal rather than surrounding noise. This is because noise is generally spread out across a wider frequency range. By narrowing the bandwidth, the noise that can interfere with the signal becomes reduced, effectively increasing the SNR.

In MRI, lower bandwidth results in longer acquisition times, which can enhance the quality of the signal being captured. Given that the noise is often random and not frequency-specific, concentrating on a smaller bandwidth allows the desired signals to be retained more effectively while minimizing the contribution of noise.

It is essential to note that while other options may suggest variations in the relationship between bandwidth and SNR, the principle that reducing bandwidth increases SNR due to a decrease in noise exposure is well-established in the field of MRI. In choosing parameters for image acquisition, balancing bandwidth and SNR is crucial for optimizing image quality.