Stimulating growth parameters by magnetic field in irradiated with gamma radiation soybean varieties

All biological systems are affected by radiation and magnetic fields (MFs). This study investigated the effects of gamma radiation and magnetic field treatments, both separately and together, on the seedling percentage, length, and chlorophyll content in the M1(first generation of plants) generation of Defiance, General, and Iraquois soybean cultivars. A magnetic field (MF) with a flux density of 3.8- 4.8 mT was applied to the seeds of three soybean cultivars at a speed of 1 m/s for 2.2 s (1 time MF), 6.6 s (3 times MF), and 19.8 s (9 times MF). Additionally, 200 and 250 Gy gamma radiation were applied combined with a magnetic field (200, 250 Gy+MF). The treated seeds were grown in a greenhouse under controlled conditions, and each treatment was repeated three times using a randomised block design. On the 14th day, the seedling emergence percentage, seedling height, and chlorophyll content of seedlings were determined. ANOVA, Tukey, and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used for statistical analysis of the obtained data. The results showed that magnetic fields positively affected germination in Defiance and General; radiation generally reduced growth, but the combination of treatments affected seedling growth and chlorophyll content, with effects varying depending on dose and variety.