Magnetized Water: Science or Fraud?

R. V. Martín Algarra
Departamento de Fisiología, Farmacología y Toxicología, Universidad CEU – Cardenal Herrera, 46113 Moncada, Valencia, Spain
L. Lahuerta Zamora , G. M. Antón Fos and P. A. Alemán López
Departamento de Química, Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universidad CEU – Cardenal Herrera, 46113 Moncada, Valencia, Spain
J. Chem. Educ., 2008, 85 (10), p 1416
DOI: 10.1021/ed085p1416
Publication Date (Web): October 1, 2008

Abstract

Skepticism is one of the cornerstones of scientific learning. Some pseudosciences in domains such as astronomy or pharmacy use a host of issues in everyday life as pretexts for work in the classroom (e.g., astrology) or laboratory (e.g., homeopathy). Chemistry also offers opportunities to promote skeptical thinking in students. Commercial devices such as water magnetizers have been wrapped in a pseudoscientific halo and are widely advertised on radio and television, where they reach a large audience. The water magnetizers provide a unique opportunity to help university and secondary students develop appropriate skepticism against extraordinary claims and use testing as the "touchstone" for their confirmation.

Keywords (Audience):

First-Year Undergraduate / General

Keywords (Domain):

Analytical Chemistry

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Aqueous Solution Chemistry
View: Hi-Res PDF | PDF w/ Links

Tools

SciFinder Links

SciFinder subscribers: Click to sign in | Not a SciFinder subscriber? Learn more at www.cas.org

Explore by:

History

  • Received: August 03, 2009

Recommend & Share

  • Share on ACS NetworkACS Network
  • Add to FacebookFacebook
  • Tweet ThisTweet This
  • Add to CiteULikeCiteULike
  • Add to NewsvineNewsvine
  • Digg ThisDigg This
  • Add to DeliciousDelicious

Related Content