Can a Gyromagnetic Ratio Be Negative?

Most atomic nuclei

have positive gyromagnetic ratios, but a few nuclei and the electron have negative values (γ < 0). ... When γ > 0 the spin and magnetic moment point in the same direction; for negative γ they are still collinear but lie in opposite directions.

What does a negative gyromagnetic ratio mean?

Negative Values

The term (g_eμ_B) is the magnetogyric ratio." This explanation basically argues that the hypothetical direction of an electrons spin gives a magnetic moment in the opposite direction due to its negative charge.

What does gyromagnetic ratio depend on?

The constant gamma is characteristic for each isotope and is called the gyromagnetic ratio. The sensitivity of a nucleus in NMR depends on gamma (high gamma, high sensitivity). The magnetic moment of each nucleus precesses around B₀.