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Human response to very low-frequency electromagnetic energy

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Frey AH · 1963

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This pioneering 1963 research documented that humans respond measurably to very low frequency electromagnetic energy.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

This 1963 research by Frey examined how humans respond to very low frequency (VLF) electromagnetic energy, representing early scientific investigation into biological effects of EMF exposure. The study focused on VLF radiation, which operates in the 3-30 kHz range and is produced by sources like naval communications and lightning. This work helped establish the foundation for understanding how electromagnetic fields interact with human biology.

Why This Matters

This study represents a landmark moment in EMF research, published just as our electromagnetic environment was beginning to expand dramatically. Frey's investigation into VLF effects came during an era when scientists were first recognizing that electromagnetic fields could produce measurable biological responses in humans. The reality is that VLF frequencies surround us daily through military communications, power line harmonics, and atmospheric phenomena. What makes this research particularly significant is its timing - conducted when EMF exposure levels were far lower than today, yet still documenting human responses to these frequencies. This early work helped establish that the human body is not electromagnetically inert, a finding that would prove increasingly relevant as our exposure to artificial electromagnetic fields expanded exponentially in subsequent decades.

Exposure Information

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.

Cite This Study
Frey AH (1963). Human response to very low-frequency electromagnetic energy.
Show BibTeX
@article{human_response_to_very_low_frequency_electromagnetic_energy_g6646,
  author = {Frey AH},
  title = {Human response to very low-frequency electromagnetic energy},
  year = {1963},
  
  
}

Quick Questions About This Study

Very low frequency (VLF) electromagnetic fields operate between 3-30 kHz and are produced by naval communications, lightning, and some industrial processes. These frequencies can travel long distances and penetrate buildings easily.
Allan Frey was a pioneering researcher who conducted some of the earliest studies on electromagnetic field biological effects. His work in the 1960s helped establish that humans and animals respond measurably to various electromagnetic frequencies.
This 1963 study occurred when EMF exposure levels were much lower than today, yet still documented human biological responses. It helped establish early scientific recognition that electromagnetic fields produce measurable effects in living systems.
In 1963, VLF sources included natural lightning, early naval communications systems, and some industrial equipment. The electromagnetic environment was far simpler than today's complex mix of wireless technologies and electronic devices.
VLF frequencies (3-30 kHz) are much lower than cell phone frequencies (around 1-5 GHz) but higher than power line frequencies (50-60 Hz). They represent a middle range in the electromagnetic spectrum.