Effects of 7.83 Hz and 528 Hz Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields on Early Growth of Turnip Greens Brassica rapa var. rapa

Abstract

Extremely low-frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields are known to interact with biological systems, but their effects on plant development remain incompletely characterized. This study examined the influence of weak ELF electromagnetic fields on the early growth of Brassica rapa var. rapa (turnip greens). Seeds were germinated under controlled environmental conditions and exposed for 60 minutes per day over five consecutive days to alternating electromagnetic fields at 7.83 Hz or 528 Hz, generated by solenoidal coils. Germination rates were not significantly affected by either treatment. However, seedlings exposed to both frequencies exhibited significantly greater shoot elongation compared with unexposed controls. These findings indicate that weak ELF electromagnetic fields can promote early vegetative development in B. rapa var. rapa. without altering germination success. Further studies involving multiple species, improved field characterization, and molecular assays are warranted to clarify the mechanisms underlying these effects.