Abstract

Overview

Audio frequency magnetic fields, ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, typically found near audio devices and acoustic transducers, have potential cognitive impacts that have yet to be fully explored. This study introduces a mathematical model and experimental approach to investigate their effects on short-term and working memory.

Methodology

• Development of a mathematical model to dissociate reaction times in cognitive tasks.
• Experimental setup involving 65 young, healthy participants using the Sternberg test.
• Participants were split into two groups with one receiving an audio frequency magnetic stimulus and the other receiving a sham stimulus.

Findings

The application of a ~0.1 μT magnetic stimulus to the frontal cortex near the temporal-parietal area displayed significant changes in memory performance:

• Notable deterioration in working memory, impacting up to 32% of its operability.
• Statistically significant differences in response times observed between exposed and non-exposed groups.

Conclusion

The study illustrates the profound influence that exposure to audio frequency magnetic fields can have on cognitive functions, specifically memory systems. Exposure led to extended delays in memory search, suggesting potential cognitive impairments in young individuals due to such magnetic stimuli.