The Interaction of Static and Alternating Electric Fields with Biological Systems

A discussion is presented regarding the presence of natural and man-made electric fields in our environment. It is seen that biological objects readily come into contact with such fields. The interaction of some biological objects with electric fields is presented as well as original experimentation in this area. One experiment discussed deals with the influence of a 245 V/in (96.5 V/cm) electric field on the glucose concentration (as measured by per cent transmission) of human red blood cells. The data presented show an influence by the field. The second experiment discussed deals with the behavioral manifestations of electric fields on rats. An approach-avoidance procedure is utilized. The data presented shows an avoidance response at a high electric field intensity (4.5 kV/in) (1.77 kV/cm). Practical applications of this area of study are also presented.