High Frequency Apparatus Page 10

10 HIGH FREQUENCY APPARATUS charge. When the vacuum tube electrode is passed over the body, ozone is liberated at the point of contact. For purposes of inhalation, a simple apparatus consisting of a vacuum electrode surrounded by an outer wall of glass with an air space between can be made to produce the gas in ample quantities and with the additional advantage that it may be collected and administered to the patient through a suitable rubber tube and mouthpiece. Furthermore, this simple appliance permits one to pass the gas through a small quantity of oil of eucalyptus which tends to remove the nitrous oxide that invariably accompanies ozone generated by the electric spark. Electrical Cultivation of Plants.-The high frequency current, when sent through a network of wires above a plot of ground, has the peculiar property of stimulating the plant life in the earth beneath the wires. Just why this should be so is not definitely known; while various theories have been advanced, it is possible that one and all may be faulty and it is not within the province of this book to offer theories. The apparatus required for the cultivation of plants on a small scale is neither elaborate nor costly although it must be made rather rugged in electrical construction to withstand the strain of almost continuous operation for hours at a time. In a later chapter the data for the apparatus required for the cultivation of a one acre plot in the open is given; in addition to this, notes on the conduct of experiments with potted plants indoors are given as are also a few suggestions for hot-house work with both vegetables and flowers. The electrical cultivation of plants is entirely practical if a source of cheap electric power is available. On the small farm where water power or even gasoline engine power is developed, the electric current may be generated at very low cost in quantities sufficient for practical work.