THERMAL VS. NONTHERMAL MECHANISMS OF INTERACTIONS BETWEEN ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS AND BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS

Abstract

This paper was written with an intention to illuminate some features in discussion of nature of electromagnetic fields (EMF) interactions with biological systems. The author attempts to show the principle difference in the biophysical and engineering approaches to biological mechanisms of EMF initiated bioeffects. While biophysical approach is based on experimentally obtained data on biological responses to the applied EMF, the engineering approach strongly relies on proposed as hazardous specific absorption rate (SAR) value. With experimental data, comparing effects of low and high frequency electromagnetic fields, discussing modulation of radiofrequency (RF) signals, the author demonstrates the superiority of the non-thermal approach. Biological windows, resonance mechanism and use of geomagnetic fields for navigation are also in favor of the non-thermal mechanisms.