Project - Emf Detector

Ghosts, Trump, and Einstein: A Foray into Pseudoscience, EMF Detectors, and Critical Thinking
Ghosts, Trump, and Einstein:

A Foray into Pseudoscience, EMF
Detectors, and Critical Thinking
Rachel Shannon
EE 418
Dr. Mani Mina
Iowa State University
December 2016
Table of Contents
Abstract. .2
Introduction.3
Developing Beliefs in Pseudoscience.4
Pseudoscience in Mainstream Media..6
Understanding EMF Detectors8
Measuring EMF Radiation.13
Causes of Measurement Errors..15
Conclusion.16
DIY: Arduino Electric Field Probe18
Objective...18
Background...18
Materials....18
Procedure...19
Results....20
Discussion..20
Arduino Sketch..21
References..24
1
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to critically analyze pseudoscientific claims by studying the belief
system of pseudoscience supporters and the physics of popular ghost hunting devices,
specifically, EMF detectors, in which an Arduino sensor capacitor circuit is demonstrated. The
goal is to identify why a belief in pseudoscience exists despite the amount of evidence against it
and to identify sources of error in measurement devices which may be misconstrued by
paranormal investigators as evidence of ghostly entities. A belief in pseudoscience has been
found to be associated with the amount of formal education an individual receives.
Consequently, many who become paranormal investigators lack the training required to produce
substantial, empirical evidence of the paranormal. A flaw found in the investigation process of
paranormal researchers is placed on the limitation of understanding of their own electrical
devices in terms of what is being measured and how the device is taking measurements. The
question as to if ghosts exists is dependent on the belief of an individual and the ability for that
individual to critically analyze information.
2
Introduction
In a world where information is readily present and opinions obfuscate if not overrule fact, it
may be difficult to differentiate what is true from what is false. This misinformation - and the
opinions which are built upon it - can be detrimental to the progress of society. This is evident by
the recent presidential election in which the GOP candidate, Donald Trump, has been voted in as
President-Elect Trump. How could a man with dangerous rhetoric win the hearts of many
Americans? The answer is simple: he appealed to peoples emotions (Edsall, 2015). Donald
Trump spoke in a way that tapped into the American people's dissatisfaction with the
establishment. By tapping into how the American people were feeling, he was able to influence
supporters into thinking that he was the man for the job.
A much less polarizing topic, but as equally influenced by emotions and non-fact based opinions,
is the realm of ghost hunting and the supernatural. As such, it is important to analyze
pseudoscientific claims by employing critical thinking techniques, objectively examining certain
alleged or perceived truths pertaining to the supernatural. In light of the popular nature of the
topic, it is incumbent upon members of the scientific community to investigate and inform the
public of any erroneous claims or logical fallacies (Hines, 2003).
The way in which data is measured largely determines if it can be used as legitimate evidence. It
is then vital to analyze the tools and methods of measuring supernatural phenomenon, as many
different types of tools are now being cited as providing evidence of the paranormal. By using
critical thinking and the scientific method, we can review the methods employed by paranormal
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investigators to assist in discerning the validity of their claims. To this end, we will review the
physics of one such popular measurement device - the EMF detector - to determine potential
sources of error that may register as evidence of the paranormal.
Developing Beliefs in Pseudoscience
In psychology, the essence of cognitive-behavior therapy is derived from the theory that how we
think impacts how we feel and behave (Seltzer, 2008). Unfortunately, feelings seem to rule the
day, and judgment on the validity of statements seems more heavily influenced by emotions and
opinions rather than facts or logic. Opinions are not facts. Fact is something that can be checked
and supported with evidence. A better definition of fact is objective truth in which it does not
matter if one does not believe in it, it still holds true. The fact that the earth is round is an
objective truth. Yet to this day the argument that the earth is flat versus that the earth is round
still exists evident by the Twitter quarrel between musical artist B.o.B. and American
astrophysicist Neil Degrasse Tyson (Wagner, 2016). Feelings, which most opinions are based on,
are in itself based on a belief or view. Ones ability to critically analyze information and
determine whether it is emotionally or quantitatively based tells a lot about how a person thinks
and perceives reality. According to self-affirmation theory, an individual will reduce the impact
of threat, i.e. evidence contrary to their beliefs, by focusing their attention on other areas that still
provide them a sense of self-worth (Cohen, et al., 2000). In other words, individuals will look for
evidence that supports their beliefs while neglecting evidence that tells them otherwise.
Self-affirming bias may help explain why so many believe in pseudoscience. Rather than
adapting inquiry, open-mindedness, and critical thinking as a basis to understanding the
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unknown, many people find it easier to believe some perceived truth that aligns with their
personal beliefs, all in the name of self-preservation. It seems that in order to reduce the degree
to which self-affirming bias can be detrimental to an individuals intellectual growth, the ability
to be open-minded is necessary.
Open-mindedness is an aim of education where it becomes a skill useful in achieving new aims
by breaking down resistance to new ideas (Hare, 1993). Thus, to fully comprehend how an
individual develops beliefs in pseudoscience, it is necessary to examine their education. Studies
show that a belief in pseudoscience is related to the level of formal education in an individual.
The study conducted by the National Science Foundation looked at public attitudes and
understanding of Americans in regards to science and technology spanning from 1979 to present
day. The participants were at least of 18 years of age and education was taken into consideration,
however, not religion. The NSF looked at indicators of basic scientific literacy: the degrees to
which respondents demonstrated understanding of basic scientific terms, concepts, and facts; the
ability of the individual to comprehend how science and technology generates and assesses
evidence; and the capacity to distinguish science from pseudoscience (National Science
Foundation, 2014).
The results concluded that younger generations are less likely to believe in pseudoscience than
older generations. On average, younger generations have had more formal education than
Americans coming into adulthood 50 years ago (Patten & Fry, 2015). The study also took into
consideration the type of education one receives: high school degree or less; a two-year college
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degree; a baccalaureate; and an advanced degree (Losh, et al., 2003). Those who have specific
majors in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) fields are less likely than
business majors to believe in pseudoscience.
Although Americans are more educated today than generations before, about one-third still
support pseudoscience like astrology and nearly half reject evolution (Losh, et al., 2003). This
begs several questions: How are schools teaching science literacy? How can belief in
pseudoscience be reduced? Is there enough inquiry into critically thinking? It should be
suggested that educational institutions should include in their science classes an analysis in
regards to why others believe in ghosts and the paranormal itself which can help students discern
the process of scientific inquiry from those of pseudoscience.
Pseudoscience in Mainstream Media
The popularity of pseudoscience can be attributed in part to television programs where
paranormal investigators attempt to debunk the presence of paranormal activity in various
locations. Shows like the Sci-Fi Channels Ghost Hunters, launched in 2004, proved to be a
rating success, drawing nearly 3 million viewers regularly by its third season. The success of
Ghost Hunters gave rise to a plethora of paranormal-themed reality shows like A&Es
Paranormal State, Biographys Celebrity Ghost Stories, the Discovery Channels Ghost Lab, and
the Travel Channels Ghost Adventures. The influence of these shows on the population
contributes greatly to how the media can shape beliefs about the paranormal (Brewer, 2012).
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A belief that many ghost hunters share is the belief that strong support for the existence of ghosts
can be found in modern physics. A Google search renders nearly 16 million results and many
sources, mostly paranormal websites, cite Albert Einstein as offering a scientific basis for the
reality of ghosts. Often many believers spout that Albert Einstein said that matter cannot be
created or destroyed, which is commonly known in the scientific community as the Second Law
of Thermodynamics. For example, ghost researcher John Kachuba, in his book "Ghosthunters"
(2007, New Page Books), writes, "Einstein proved that all the energy of the universe is constant
and that it can neither be created nor destroyed. ... So what happens to that energy when we die?
If it cannot be destroyed, it must then, according to Dr. Einstein, be transformed into another
form of energy. What is that new energy? ... Could we call that new creation a ghost (Radford,
2011)?" Clearly, an understanding of basic science is amiss. When an organism dies, its energy
basically goes back into the environment: as food for other organisms such as plants which
absorb it from the earth, and consumption of flesh by other animals. Energy is simply broken
down for use by the surrounding environment.
While many ghost hunters believe that ghosts are a manifestation of energy after death, they also
hold the belief that ghostly energies can be measured with devices such as the ever popular EMF
(electromagnetic field) detector. The EMF detector is the modern day ghost researcher's
tracking device, a very important piece of equipment according to ghosthunting101.com, a
website that gives advice on how to ghost hunt and what to bring. It is also evident from
watching paranormal reality shows and doing a little research that the EMF detector is the go-to
device. Private firm, Richmond Investigators of the Paranormal, lists off a few essential devices
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to bring along in investigations such as, not surprisingly, an EMF detector and a temperature gun
(Ahmed, 2011). Tom Cook of TomsGadgets.com, explains how EMF detectors work: "At a
haunted location," Cook said, "strong, erratic fluctuating EMFs are commonly found. It seems
these energy fields have some definite connection to the presence of ghosts. The exact nature of
that connection is still a mystery. However, the anomalous fields are easy to find. Whenever you
locate one, a ghost might be present....any erratic EMF fluctuations you may detect may indicate
ghostly activity (Radford, 2006)." Paranormal investigators often rely on these high-tech
gadgets to produce evidence of ghosts. To understand exactly what kind of evidence
paranormal investigators are collecting, it is essential to understand their measurement devices
and the method of which they obtain that data.
Understanding EMF Detectors
EMF detectors, or meters, were originally designed to look for electromagnetic pollution,
another pseudoscientific claim originating from the mid-1970s, out of fear that electromagnetic
fields from power lines caused cancer, particularly in children who live near power lines (Hines,
2003. p.389). This pseudoscientific claim still persists today even when the National Cancer
Institute clearly states:
Numerous epidemiologic studies and comprehensive reviews of the scientific literature have
evaluated possible associations between exposure to non-ionizing EMFs and risk of cancer in
children (1214). (Magnetic fields are the component of non-ionizing EMFs that are usually
studied in relation to their possible health effects.) Most of the research has focused on leukemia
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and brain tumors, the two most common cancers in children. Studies have examined associations
of these cancers with living near power lines, with magnetic fields in the home, and with
exposure of parents to high levels of magnetic fields in the workplace. No consistent evidence
for an association between any source of non-ionizing EMF and cancer has been found.
In 2002, the International Agency for for Research on Cancer (IARC), a component of the World
Health Organization, appointed Working Group to review all evidence of such claims and
classified ELF-EMFs as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on limited evidence; and
static electric and magnetic fields, and extremely low frequency electric fields were determined
not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans (National Cancer Institute, 2016). The
possibility of carcinogenic effects on humans, though based on limited evidence, is clearly
taken seriously by companies wanting to make a profit evident by websites such as
healthybuildingscience.com; whose services are designed for anyone seeking a healthier indoor
environment and peace of mind, nachi.org; home to the International Association of Certified
Home Inspectors who provide articles to the public like EMFs in the Home, and
emfservices.com; a company that provides cost-effective, technology-based solutions to
problems regarding electric and magnetic fields. Though these businesses mean well, they only
magnify the hysteria regarding cancer causing EMF radiation. This particular movement is
similar to the stances that anti-vaxxers have against immunizations. The only legitimate use for
those who offer services is in identifying any electrical wiring problems within residences and
businesses. A much more legitimate concern of EMF radiation are from sources of high energy,
like microwaves, x-rays, and gamma rays which are strong enough to damage human DNA
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rather than consumer electronics and wiring (Shermer, 2010). While the concern for health is
undoubtedly important, it is the ability to discern information that will help reduce the amount of
misinformation flooding through our newsfeeds, social media, and our everyday lives (Isaac,
2016).
Paranormal investigators often explain EMF detectors as a device to look for spikes in the EMF
signal, with the spike suggesting a change in electrical current, and thus a spirit being (Veronese,
2012). Many paranormal investigators give this generic explanation and never actually dive into
the true physics of how an EMF detector works. A popular EMF detector promoted by
paranormal enthusiasts is the TriField Broadband Meter 100XE manufactured in the USA by
AlphaLab, Inc. This device is recommended by sites such as proghosthunters.com who review
ghost hunting equipment and an outdoor recreational lifestyle website backpackverse.com with a
slant on the paranormal and ghosts.
The Trifield BroadBand 100XE Meter is described as a gaussmeter, electric field meter, radio
field strength meter in a single unit. According to the product page the meter features and
application include:
Features:
Detects the three types of electromagnetic pollution: AC magnetic fields, AC electric
fields, and radio/microwaves.
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AC magnetic and electric fields are 3-axis, allowing quick accurate readings regardless of
meter orientation.
Two magnetic ranges cover 0.2-100 milligauss.
This is sufficiently sensitive to detect the background field almost anywhere (except far
from civilization), while measuring up to very strong AC fields.
Electric range covers 5-1000 V/m (or .5-100 kV/m with original version of the Trifield
Meter)
Radio/microwave covers 10 to 1000 microwatts/square cm which includes the maximum
permissible public exposure levels in all countries.
Operates about 40 hours on replaceable standard 9V battery, has a low battery indicator.
Analog (needle-type) display has very fast response time compared to digital. (However,
AlphaLab also manufactures digital meters.)
Applications:
Measures AC (artificial) magnetic fields rapidly. (Does not measure DC of static fields,
such as the Earth Field. Click here for other magnetic meters).
Measures AC electric fields rapidly, such as from overhead power lines or improperly
grounded equipment. Can locate wiring in walls (using the 100XE version).
Measures major RF/microwave sources such as leakage from microwave ovens, or the
field near cell towers. (Note that wireless internet transmitters and individual cell phone
are designed to emit very little power and usually are well below international RF
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exposure threshold. Consequently, the Trifield Meter will only detect these if very near
the source.)
Source: https://www.trifield.com/content/trifield-meter/
Extensive research indicates that there exists no true technical document outlining the physics of
how consumer EMF devices work, only Users Manuals and product descriptions which provide
the user on how to read and operate the device to measure electric and magnetic fields. Thus, we
must rely on the branch of physics concerning electromagnetism to understand how electric
fields and magnetic fields are measured.
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Measuring EMF
To measure a field without interrupting the field itself, the desired measurement is the fields
effect on another object. There are two basic models for which an electric field and a magnetic
field is measured: the parallel plate capacitor and the Hall effect, respectively (EMFs.info, 2016).
The parallel plate capacitor model consists of two thin parallel conductive plates over an area A,
separated by a dielectric with permittivity . A charge density = Q/A exists on the surface of
the plate. The electric field E, is separated by a distance d, between the two plates, and the
electric field near the center of the device is of uniform magnitude E=/. The electric field E is
measured either in volts/meter or Newtons/Coulomb. Thus, the electric field can be defined as
the electric force per unit charge given in the following equation
E = F /q
where E and F are vectors, and F is the electric force in Newtons, and q is the charge in
Coulombs (Sadiku, 2015).
Figure 1: parallel plate capacitor model
The voltage is defined as the line integral of the electric field between the plates:
13
d d
V = E dz = dz = d = Q
A
0 0
When applying the parallel plate capacitor model for use in devices to detect an electric field, it
would be advantageous to measure the voltage and use that data in return to calculate the electric
field. A sensor device to determine the distance between the conducting plate on the device and
the conducting source being detected may also prove to be useful in the design.
To measure a magnetic field, one should consider the Hall effect as it is extensively used as a
magnetic probe. The Hall effect is named after and discovered in 1879 by Edwin Hall. The Hall
effect is the production of potential difference across an electrical conductor due to the force
exerted on the charges when a magnetic field is present. This force is called the Lorentz force
and can be described by the following equation
F = qE + qv B .
If a particle of charge q and velocity v are present in an electric field E and magnetic field B,
then a that particle would experience a force (Sadiku, 2015).
Figure 2: The model for the Hall effect.
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The Hall effect can be demonstrated by running current through a conducting plate. When a
magnetic field is nearby, force should then be exerted on the charged particles and the potential
across the plate can be measured.
Causes of Measurement Errors
Paranormal investigators often do not think about reducing variables during investigations due to
a lack of training in scientific inquiry. Variables like recording equipment, a conducting or
ferrous metal object nearby, or naturally occurring geomagnetic fields can all cause the EMF
detector to spike. These are all causes of measurement errors that need to be taken into
consideration when investigating haunted locations. It was stated earlier that EMF meters were
originally designed to measure mains-frequency magnetic and electric fields in buildings. Using
a device not suitable to its design is a vital flaw in measurement itself (Townsend, 2011). The act
of being directly involved during data acquisition creates a sleuth of variables that can interrupt
proper measurement methods. To properly conduct measurements in a haunted location, a
baseline reading of every device, if possible, should be taken of the area for at least 24 hours. No
actual human should be present in the area of investigation, only the equipment itself. It would
also be useful to take a geographic survey of the area to determine any man-made or natural
source of electromagnetic fields.
If these causes of error are being misinterpreted as evidence of ghosts by paranormal
investigators, then it should follow that ghosts do not exist particularly due to the fact that the
link between ghost and electromagnetic fields has not yet been proven. For those who still
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believe in the reality of ghosts, there exists the MWI, the Many Worlds Interpretation, that states
that all realizations of reality are possible and exist in parallel (Vaidman, 2014). For those who
do not believe that ghost exists, The Ghost in the Machine, is an article published in the Journal
of the Society for Psychical Research authored by Vic Tandy and Tony Lawrence of Coventry
University, a public research university located in Coventry, England. The abstract states,In this
paper we outline an as yet undocumented natural cause for some cases of ostensible haunting.
Using the first authors own experience as an example, we show how a 19hz standing air wave
may under certain conditions create sensory phenomena suggestive of a ghost. The mechanics
and physiology of this ghost in the machine effect is outlined. Spontaneous case researchers are
encouraged to rule out this potential natural explanation for paranormal experience in future
cases of the haunting or poltergeist type.
Conclusion
The unknown makes most people uncomfortable, and to preserve self-worth, many people turn
to sources like pseudoscience to confirm their beliefs instead of challenging their beliefs with
critical thinking. It is then necessary to teach critical thinking not only as a tool for science but as
a tool of living. Paranormal investigators, who often fall into the realm of pseudoscience, mean
well but often misinterpret data due to the lack of training in scientific inquiry. This does not
mean that the paranormal is nonexistent. This just means that the investigator needs to be
cognizant about sources of error. Methods of measurement, emotionally and quantitatively, need
to be reassessed so that true empirical evidence can be found. Thus, it is important to keep
looking into the mysterious, into the unknown.
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The fairest thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the fundamental emotion which
stands at the cradle of true art and true science. He who knows it not and can no longer wonder,
no longer feel amazement, is as good as dead, a snuffed-out candle. -Albert Einstein
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DIY: Arduino Electric Field Probe
This Arduino EMF detector is adapted from Makezine. Makezine is a source that provides
do-it-yourself projects for the general hobbyist. This EMF detector is modified to be equipped
with audio and assumes that the user is familiar with using an Arduino. Further discussion is
included on the physics of how the Arduino EMF detector collects and converts data into useful
information.
Background
Makezine describes and suggests that the Arduino EMF detector truly senses EMF radiation. The
goal of this project is to determine the source being measured. It is hypothesized that the source
is only an electric field and not truly an electromagnetic field as the original project suggests. For
example, let us apply the parallel plate capacitor model. Let the antenna probe be one of the
capacitor plates and the human body be the other. The human body is a well known source of
capacitance (ESD Association, 2010. Fundamentals of Electrostatic Charge). When the detector
senses the electric field present between the human body and the wire antenna, it takes the input
as voltage ranging between 0 and 5 volts then using an A/D, converts that data into integers
ranging from 0-1023 which can be mapped to an indicating device, like an LED for visual, and
piezo element for audio (Arduino, 2016. analogRead).
Materials
Arduino Uno
breadboard
LED (10)
1M ohm resistor (3) or 3.3M ohm resistor (1)
330 ohm resistor (10)
piezo element
wires
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Procedure
1. Connect Arduino to a computer and create a new sketch.

2. Recreate t he diagram below on the breadboard and Arduino.
Figure 1. Created with fritzing v0.9.3 - http://fritzing.org/
3. Copy and paste the Arduino sketch provided. See section: Arduino Sketch
4. Open serial monitor to view data for calibration.
5. Compile and upload.
6. Observe what you see.
19
Results
The detector worked well near microwaves, outlets, and various household electronics. Touching
the antenna indicated a voltage reading. Production of electric field by humans is weak, thus
decreasing distance between the source and self generates an electric field detectable by the
meter. The addition of the piezo element for audio caused the Arduino to constantly detect.
Discussion
The addition of the piezo element may have caused extra noise to be detected. Another source of
noise may have been coming from the Arduino itself. To reduce noise, an addition of a filter
needs to be implemented. To confirm electric field detection for this particular model in case, a
known source of constant electric field radiation that illicites between 0 and 5v on the meter can
be used as a test source. Collecting multiple sets of data and comparing the calculated electric
field to that of the theoretical value of the field should help in determining the source being
detected. To create a true EMF detector, a true capacitive sensor circuit is suggested, and the
addition of a hall-effect sensor is recommended.
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Arduino Sketch:
//Electric Field Probe// By Rachel Shannon // EE 418 // Iowa State University// December 2016
//This sketch is a modification of a popular Arduino EMF detector.
//Modification consist of the addition of a piezo element to audibly
//alert the user of an electric field in conjunction with the existing LED bargraph.
//The purpose of this project was to determine how this particular EMF detector
//collects data as input, and determining that source of data. It is hypothesized that
//the input being collected is an electrical field, not an electromagnetic field as the original
//project suggests.
//
//original code/project by Aaron ALAI - aaronalai1@gmail.com
//modified for use w/ LED bargraph by Collin Cunningham - collin@makezine.com
//modified for use w/audio by Rachel Shannon - rshannon@iastate.edu
#include "pitches.h" // definitions of notes to frequencies

#define NUMREADINGS 15 // raise this number to increase data smoothing
//Create an array of notes being called from pitches.h

int note[] = {NOTE_C5, NOTE_D5, NOTE_E5, NOTE_F5, NOTE_G5, NOTE_A5, NOTE_B5, NOTE_C6, NOTE_D6, NOTE_E6};
int noteDuration[] = {4,4,4,4,4,4,4,4,4,4}; //note length
int senseLimit = 15; // raise this number to decrease sensitivity (up to 1023 max)
int probePin = A5; // analog 5
int val = 0; // reading from probePin
int LED1 = 2; // connections

int LED2 = 3; // to
int LED3 = 4; // LED
int LED4 = 5; // bargraph
int LED5 = 6; // anodes
int LED6 = 7; // with
int LED7 = 8; // resistors
int LED8 = 9; // in
int LED9 = 10; // series
int LED10 = 11; //
int speaker = 12; //modification
// variables for smoothing
int readings[NUMREADINGS]; // the readings from the analog input

int index = 0; // the index of the current reading
int total = 0; // the running total
int average = 0; // final average of the probe reading
void setup() {
pinMode(2, OUTPUT); // specify LED bargraph outputs

pinMode(3, OUTPUT);
pinMode(4, OUTPUT);
pinMode(5, OUTPUT);
pinMode(6, OUTPUT);
pinMode(7, OUTPUT);
pinMode(8, OUTPUT);
pinMode(9, OUTPUT);
pinMode(10, OUTPUT);
pinMode(11, OUTPUT);
pinMode(12, OUTPUT); //SPEAKER
Serial.begin(9600); // initiate serial connection for debugging/etc
for (int i = 0; i < NUMREADINGS; i++)

readings[i] = 0; // initialize all the readings to 0
}
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void loop() {
val = analogRead(probePin); // take a reading from the probe
if(val >= 1){ // if the reading isn't zero, proceed
val = constrain(val, 1, senseLimit); // turn any reading higher than the senseLimit value into the senseLimit value iterates
val = map(val, 1, senseLimit, 1, 1023); // remap the constrained value within a 1 to 1023 range
total -= readings[index]; // subtract the last reading

readings[index] = val; // read from the sensor
total += readings[index]; // add the reading to the total
index = (index + 1); // advance to the next index
if (index >= NUMREADINGS) // if we're at the end of the array...

index = 0; // ...wrap around to the beginning
average = total / NUMREADINGS; // calculate the average
if (average > 50){ // if the average is over 50 ...

digitalWrite(LED1, HIGH); // light the first LED
digitalWrite(speaker, HIGH); // and play a note to the speaker
tone(12, note[0], 1000/noteDuration[0] ); //assign note frequency and duration
}
else{ // and if it's not ...
digitalWrite(LED1, LOW); // turn that LED off
}
if (average > 150){ // and so on ...

digitalWrite(LED2, HIGH);
digitalWrite(speaker, HIGH);
tone(12, note[1], 1000/noteDuration[0] );
}
else{
digitalWrite(LED2, LOW);
}
if (average > 250){

}
else{
}
if (average > 350){

}
else{
}
if (average > 450){

}
else{
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if (average > 550){

}
else{
}
if (average > 650){

}
else{
}
if (average > 750){

}
else{
}
if (average > 850){

}
else{
}
if (average > 950){

}
else{
}
Serial.println(val); // use output to aid in calibrating

// delay(); //enable delay to slow down readings to serial monitor
}
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References
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Retrieved from
http://www.npr.org/2011/10/31/141868232/paranormal-technology-gadgets-for-ghost-tra
cking
Brewer, P. (2012). The Trappings of Science: Media Messages, Scientific Authority, and Beliefs
About Paranormal Investigators. Science Communication, 35(3). 311-333. DOI:
10.1177/1075547012454599
Cohen, G., Aronson, J., & Steele, C. (2000). When Beliefs Yield to Evidence: Reducing Biased
Evaluation by Affirming the Self. PSPB, Vol. 26(9), 1151-1164.
Edsall, T. (2015, December 2). Donald Trumps Appeal. Retrieved from

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/02/opinion/campaign-stops/donald-trumps-appeal.html
?_r=0
Einstein, A. (2007). The world as I see it. United States: BN Publishing.
EMFs.info (2016). Measuring and calculating EMFs. Retrieved from

http://www.emfs.info/what/measuring/
Hare, W. (1979). Open-mindedness and education. (pp. 63). Montreal: McGill-Queen's

University Press.
Hines, T. (2003). Pseudoscience and the paranormal. Amherst, NY: Prometheus Books.
Isaac, M. (2016, December 15). Facebook Mounts Effort to Limit Tide of Fake News. Retrieved
from http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/15/technology/facebook-fake-news.html
Juliano, D. (2011). Ghost Hunting 101. Retrieved from http://www.ghosthunting101.com
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American general public, 1979-2001. Skeptical Inquirer, 27(5), 30+. Retrieved from
http://link.galegroup.com.proxy.lib.iastate.edu/apps/doc/A108114811/BIC1?u=iastu_mai
n&xid=0816222e
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Moore, R. (1992). Debunking the Paranormal: We Should Teach Critical Thinking as a

Necessity for Living, Not Just as a Tool for Science. The American Biology Teacher,
54(1), 4-9. doi:10.2307/4449386
National Cancer Institute. (2016, May 27). Electromagnetic Fields and Cancer. Retrieved from
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Ghosts, Trump, and Einstein: A Foray into Pseudoscience, EMF Detectors, and Critical Thinking

Ghosts, Trump, and Einstein:

Dr. Mani Mina

Iowa State University

Developing Beliefs in Pseudoscience.4

Pseudoscience in Mainstream Media..6

Understanding EMF Detectors8

Measuring EMF Radiation.13

Causes of Measurement Errors..15

DIY: Arduino Electric Field Probe18

and to identify sources of error in measurement devices which may be misconstrued by

paranormal investigators as evidence of ghostly entities. A belief in pseudoscience has been

found to be associated with the amount of formal education an individual receives.

paranormal researchers is placed on the limitation of understanding of their own electrical

individual to critically analyze information.

pseudoscientific claims by employing critical thinking techniques, objectively examining certain

public of any erroneous claims or logical fallacies (Hines, 2003).

sources of error that may register as evidence of the paranormal.

Developing Beliefs in Pseudoscience

adapting inquiry, open-mindedness, and critical thinking as a basis to understanding the

individual develops beliefs in pseudoscience, it is necessary to examine their education. Studies

business majors to believe in pseudoscience.

pseudoscience be reduced? Is there enough inquiry into critically thinking? It should be

the process of scientific inquiry from those of pseudoscience.

Pseudoscience in Mainstream Media

The popularity of pseudoscience can be attributed in part to television programs where

paranormal investigators attempt to debunk the presence of paranormal activity in various

down for use by the surrounding environment.

tracking device, a very important piece of equipment according to ghosthunting101.com, a

gadgets to produce evidence of ghosts. To understand exactly what kind of evidence

paranormal investigators are collecting, it is essential to understand their measurement devices

and the method of which they obtain that data.

Understanding EMF Detectors

Institute clearly states:

classified ELF-EMFs as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on limited evidence; and

possibility of carcinogenic effects on humans, though based on limited evidence, is clearly

taken seriously by companies wanting to make a profit evident by websites such as

emfservices.com; a company that provides cost-effective, technology-based solutions to

slant on the paranormal and ghosts.

Detects the three types of electromagnetic pollution: AC magnetic fields, AC electric

fields, and radio/microwaves.

Two magnetic ranges cover 0.2-100 milligauss.

from civilization), while measuring up to very strong AC fields.

Radio/microwave covers 10 to 1000 microwatts/square cm which includes the maximum

permissible public exposure levels in all countries.

AlphaLab also manufactures digital meters.)

fields and magnetic fields are measured.

Coulombs (Sadiku, 2015).

Figure 1: parallel plate capacitor model

and can be described by the following equation

then a that particle would experience a force (Sadiku, 2015).

Figure 2: The model for the Hall effect.

across the plate can be measured.

Causes of Measurement Errors

a lack of training in scientific inquiry. Variables like recording equipment, a conducting or

proper measurement methods. To properly conduct measurements in a haunted location, a

source of electromagnetic fields.

If these causes of error are being misinterpreted as evidence of ghosts by paranormal

cases of the haunting or poltergeist type.

looking into the mysterious, into the unknown.

no longer feel amazement, is as good as dead, a snuffed-out candle. -Albert Einstein

DIY: Arduino Electric Field Probe

piezo element for audio (Arduino, 2016. analogRead).