NMR utilizes radio-wave pulses of specific frequencies to manipulate the energy levels of atomic nuclei, specifically protons, by flipping their spins in a magnetic field. The frequency of the pulse is determined by the energy difference between the spin states, which is influenced by the gyromagnetic ratio and the magnetic field strength. Different protons in a molecule experience varying environments, leading to distinct chemical shifts that allow for differentiation in NMR spectra. The discussion also touches on the efficiency of Fourier Transform NMR (FT-NMR), which uses pulsed sources for quicker and more complex data collection compared to continuous wave methods. Overall, the principles of NMR are rooted in the interactions between radio waves and nuclear spins, rather than electron excitation.