Question

In: Physics

Why can't the human body sense magnetic fields in our bodies when neurons "fire"?

Why can't the human body sense magnetic fields in our bodies when neurons "fire"?

Solutions

Expert Solution

The magnetic field can affect the human body by inducing microcurrents.These microcurrents are generally imperceptible because they are not strong enough to excite nerve and muscle tissue. They are even weaker than the natural currents produced by your heart and brain(which cause neurons to work). For example, under the influence of a magnetic field of 0.15 µT, the average level found in homes, the microcurrents produced in your body are about 5,000 times weaker than your body's natural currents.

On the earth, the strongest natural magnetic field is offered by the Earth itself,which is about 40 µT (this is average, but it can vary from 25 µT to 65 µT),which can produce the the microcurrents in your body which are about 25 times weaker than your body's natural currents.

But if you get stronger magnetic field, these microcurrents can be comparable and can cause damage to your body. And you can sense it.! Otherwise neurons are unable to sense such a weak signal.


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