How Do Electromagnetic Fields Affect Plants?

Overview

Objectives/Goals The goal of this experiment is to determine how electromagnetic fields, specifically those of different strengths and directions, will affect plants. Methods/Materials A DC-powered apparatus was built to generate the electromagnetic fields. 84 cloves of garlic were divided into Groups A, B, and C. After a 3-day germination period, Group A was exposed to a strong electromagnetic field, and Group B was exposed to a weaker field. Within the experimental groups A and B, half were exposed to an upward-facing field and half were exposed to a downward-facing field. After two weeks, the final measurements of all the subjects were recorded. The trial was repeated 2 more times. Results On average, the Group A (up) subjects grew approximately 7% shorter than those of the control, while the Group A (down) subjects grew 7% taller. By contrast, the Group B (up) subjects were 4% taller than the control, and Group B (down) subjects were 3% shorter. Conclusions/Discussion The results imply that stronger electromagnetic fields have more significant effects than weaker fields. Whether these effects are positive or negative depend on the field strength and direction; while Group A (up) had negative effects and Group A (down) had positive effects, the opposite result was evident in Group B subjects. Therefore, in future experiments, it is important to note both the electromagnetic field strength and direction as significant factors affecting the subjects.

Awards (1)

• Honorable Mention

Competition history

• CSEF 2008 Pharmacology/ Toxicology · Entry J1532

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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