University of Turin study finds photosynthesis reacts to magnetic fields in seconds

Researchers at the University of Turin have discovered that plant photosynthesis responds to changes in magnetic fields within just ten seconds. The study, published in Scientific Reports, focused on the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana.

By comparing normal geomagnetic fields, near-zero fields, and intensified fields, scientists observed significant changes when the magnetic field was nearly neutralized. Specifically, they noted an increase in chlorophyll fluorescence and a reduction in the operational efficiency of photosystem II, which is responsible for converting light into usable energy. The plants also showed increased dissipation of excess light energy as a protective mechanism.

Unlike previous research that focused on long-term exposure and metabolic changes, this study highlights the rapid physiological response of plants to magnetic shifts. These findings may provide critical insights for future agricultural developments in space and controlled environment agriculture.