Final answer:
The initial 180° RF pulse in inversion recovery imaging is intended to establish a longitudinally magnetized environment, setting the stage for enhanced tissue contrast based on T1 relaxation times after the subsequent 90° RF pulse.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the initial 180° RF (Radio Frequency) pulse in inversion recovery imaging is to create a longitudinally magnetized environment before the 90° RF pulse. This inversion of the net magnetization vector into the opposite direction assists in creating contrast between different tissues based on their T1 relaxation times. After the initial inversion pulse, there's a waiting time called the inversion time (TI) during which tissues recover at different rates. The subsequent 90° RF pulse then converts the longitudinal magnetization into transverse magnetization, which can be detected to form the image, with contrast that reflects differences in T1 relaxation times among tissues.