We show experimentally and theoretically that two readily observed effects
in solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-radiation damping and the dipo
lar field-combine to generate bizarre spin dynamics (including chaotic evol
ution) even with extraordinarily simple sequences. For example, seemingly i
nsignificant residual magnetization after a crusher gradient triggers expon
ential regrowth of the magnetization, followed by aperiodic turbulent spin
motion. The estimated Lyapunov exponent suggests the onset of spatial-tempo
ral chaos and the existence of chaotic attractors. This effect Leads to hig
hly irreproducible experimental decays that amplify minor nonuniformities s
uch as temperature gradients. Imaging applications and consequences for oth
er NMR studies are discussed.