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Note: This study found no significant biological effects under its experimental conditions. We include all studies for scientific completeness.

Whole Body / General

Chick Embryo Development in a 26-KHz Electromagnetic Field

No Effects Found

A. ZERVINS, D.V.M. · 1973

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26-kHz electromagnetic field exposure for 19 days showed no statistically significant effect on chick embryo hatching rates.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

Researchers exposed 62 chick eggs to a 26-kHz electromagnetic field for 19 days to study effects on embryo development. While exposed eggs had a lower hatching rate (64.5%) compared to controls (86.5%), the difference wasn't statistically significant. The study found no conclusive evidence that this specific EMF frequency disrupts chick embryo development.

Cite This Study
A. ZERVINS, D.V.M. (1973). Chick Embryo Development in a 26-KHz Electromagnetic Field.
Show BibTeX
@article{chick_embryo_development_in_a_26_khz_electromagnetic_field_g5644,
  author = {A. ZERVINS and D.V.M.},
  title = {Chick Embryo Development in a 26-KHz Electromagnetic Field},
  year = {1973},
  
  
}

Quick Questions About This Study

The study tested a 26-kHz (26,000 Hz) electromagnetic field, which falls in the extremely low frequency (ELF) range. This frequency is much lower than cell phones or WiFi, but similar to some industrial equipment and power transmission systems.
The chick embryos were exposed to the 26-kHz electromagnetic field for 19 days, which covers nearly the entire 21-day incubation period for chicken eggs. This represents chronic exposure during the critical embryonic development phase.
While exposed eggs had a lower hatching rate (64.5%) compared to controls (86.5%), researchers determined this 22-percentage-point difference wasn't statistically significant. The study concluded there was no proven effect on hatching success.
The study used a 26-kHz electromagnetic field with 160-gauss peak-to-peak alternating current. This represents a relatively strong magnetic field exposure compared to typical environmental levels from most electronic devices today.
Chick embryos provide a controlled model for studying developmental effects because they develop rapidly in a closed system. Developing organisms are often more sensitive to environmental stressors, making embryos useful for detecting potential biological effects.