Aren’t Humans Already Used to Magnetic Fields Since Earth Has One?
Yes, humans have always lived with the Earth’s natural magnetic field. But that field is static, it doesn’t change direction or strength quickly, and it doesn’t flow like an electric current. The magnetic fields from electric and hybrid cars are different. They are alternating (AC) fields, meaning they change direction many times per second.
Because of that, these man-made fields can cause tiny electric currents inside the human body. Earth’s field doesn’t do that. So while we are used to the natural kind, the newer, alternating fields from vehicles may affect the body in ways we haven’t fully understood yet.
Here, we’ll explain how those fields work and what they might do to the human body.
Quick 101: What Are Magnetic and Electric Fields?
Earth naturally generates a magnetic field. This field surrounds the planet and creates what’s called the magnetosphere, a protective layer that helps shield us from harmful radiation coming from the sun. Like a giant bar magnet, the Earth’s magnetic field deflects solar wind, which helps to prevent the gradual breakdown of our atmosphere. This protection is one reason why Earth can support life (for more info, see MIT News).
In contrast, electric fields are created by charged particles. These can be found in everyday situations: inside power lines, electronic devices, and wiring. When the charges start to move, they generate magnetic fields around them.
To put it simply:
- Electric fields push the current through the wire.
- Magnetic fields form around the wire as a result, similar to the way water ripples outward when something moves through it.
How Magnetic Fields Interact With Your Body
The human body is made up of materials that conduct electricity, mainly water and dissolved salts. These conductive elements can react to electromagnetic fields in different ways.
Electric Fields
Low-frequency electric fields affect the surface of the body. They move electric charges around on the skin, much like how static electricity can make hair stand on end when near a charged object, like a balloon.
Magnetic Fields
Alternating magnetic fields (AC fields), such as those found in electric and hybrid vehicles, behave differently. They don’t just move charges on the surface, they actually induce small currents and voltages inside the body.
The primary point: AC magnetic fields generate internal electrical currents. These currents can stimulate biological systems, such as muscles or nerves.
If strong enough, these currents may trigger muscle contractions, affect nerve signals, or disrupt normal biological function.
Why Isn’t Earth’s Magnetic Field Dangerous?
Earth’s magnetic field is a natural one, but it’s a constant, inert form called a DC (direct current) field. This field doesn’t generate currents within the body because it doesn’t fluctuate.
By contrast, technologies such as electric and hybrid cars generate AC (alternating current) fields that are continuously varying in strength and direction. These shifting fields can cause currents and voltages to arise in your body, and they’re completely different – and potentially even more dangerous – than the Earth’s natural magnetic field.
Earth’s magnetic field is a stable, natural type known as a DC (direct current) field. It does not change over time, which means it doesn’t create electric currents inside the human body.
In contrast, the magnetic fields from electric and hybrid vehicles are AC (alternating current) fields. These fields constantly change direction and strength. Because of this fluctuation, they can induce voltages and currents inside the body. This makes them fundamentally different from Earth’s field – and possibly more harmful.
Sources of Magnetic Fields In Electric & Hybrid Vehicles
Electric and hybrid vehicles rely on high-power systems made up of batteries, motors, and connecting cables. When electric current flows through these components, magnetic fields are created as a natural result.
The areas where magnetic field levels are typically the highest include:
- The electric motor
- The battery pack
- The high-voltage cables connecting them
These sources are usually located beneath the floor of the vehicle or under the passenger seats, depending on the specific design and layout. As a result, the strongest magnetic fields inside the car are often measured in those lower sections of the cabin.
What Does This Have To Do With Your Health?
Magnetic fields generated by electric and hybrid vehicles induce small electrical currents and voltages in the human body. These effects are minor in magnitude, but not insignificant. Over time, especially with continuous exposure, such fields may influence biological processes, particularly in individuals who are more sensitive to electromagnetic influences.
While the long-term health implications of this exposure are still under investigation, existing studies confirm that these fields do interact with the human body. Therefore, it is reasonable to consider steps to minimize exposure.
SafeFields’ technology offers a practical solution. It introduces advanced magnetic field shielding that can be integrated into vehicles, effectively reducing exposure levels. This provides an added layer of precaution for those who regularly spend extended periods inside electric or hybrid cars.
Risks vs Benefits: A Need for Balance
Electric and hybrid cars offer many advantages, including cleaner energy and lower emissions. But it’s important to recognize that the magnetic fields they emit are not the same as the Earth’s natural magnetic field.
These are alternating fields, and unlike the Earth’s static field, they can induce electric currents and voltages inside the human body. These effects may interfere with biological functions in ways science has not fully mapped out.
To benefit from advanced vehicle technology while avoiding possible health risks, it makes sense to reduce our exposure wherever practical. Simple precautions can go a long way.
