Magnetic Acceleration of Inhaled and Exhaled Flows in Breathing

Time dependence of the velocity of inhalation and exhalation in breathing was measured in the presence and absence of a magnetic field. When a U-shaped permanent magnet of central magnetic strength 0.7 T was set around the location of air intake, the average velocity of inhaled and exhaled flows increased by about 23%. When a permanent magnet was brought in contact with the nose and a magnetic field was applied inside a nostril, the average velocity increased by about 18%. Magnetic acceleration was efficient when air flowed into a narrower space in the direction of increasing magnetic field strength. The present study suggests a novel method which assists breathing.