The Lindbladian form and the reincarnation of Felix Bloch's generalized theory of relaxation

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 Redfield's 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.