Growth alteration of Allium cepa L. roots exposed to 1.5 mT, 25 Hz pulsed magnetic field

Authors: Alejandro González-Vidal, Silvia Mercado-Sáenz, Antonio M Burgos-Molina, Francisco Sendra-Portero, Miguel J Ruiz-Gómez

Year: 2021 Sep 2

Category: Botanical Research

Journal: Int J Environ Health Res

DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2021.1972090

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34474627/

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the interactions between magnetic fields and plant biology, focusing on the effects of pulsed magnetic fields on the germination and growth of Allium cepa (onion) roots.

Methodology

Onions were subjected to a magnetic field of 25 Hz and 1.5 mT for 33 hours using Helmholtz-type equipment that produced rectangular voltage pulses.

Findings

A significant decrease in root growth was observed in the specimens exposed to the magnetic field compared to the control group.
Root growth in exposed plants was notably limited, with measurements showing a reduction from up to 21 as compared to 48 in controls over a period of 4 days.
Initial root measurements were comparably smaller, but also demonstrated a significant decrease due to magnetic exposure.

Conclusion

Exposing Allium cepa roots to specific pulsed magnetic fields adversely affects their germination and growth. This suggests a possible environmental health risk due to electromagnetic radiation from similar exposures.

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