Double quantum transition as the origin of the central dip in the z-spectrum of HDO in variably stretched gel

The ²H NMR spectrum of HDO in gelatin gel, that is stretched inside silicone rubber tubing, displays a well resolved doublet. Spectra were obtained with a range of offset frequencies of partially saturating radio-frequency (RF) radiation. The resulting steady-state irradiation envelope (also referred to as a 'z-spectrum') has the peculiar feature that maximal suppression of the doublet occurs when the irradiation is applied exactly at the centre frequency, between the two HDO peaks. We present a quantum mechanical explanation for this phenomenon. It is shown that the phenomenon is the result of double quantum transitions. The analysis is extendable to more complex quadrupolar and dipolar-coupled systems of other nuclides. It has implications for enhancement of contrast in magnetic resonance imaging of heterogeneous systems using dipolar and quadrupolar interactions.