Microwave ovens have an interesting physics behind them. Let’s explore the complete physics behind the microwave ovens in this video.Microwave ovens work on the principle of conversion of electromagnetic energy into thermal energy.
source/image(PrtSc): Lesics
Traditional cooking methods suggest heat input to the food surface.The heating food process in a microwave oven differs fundamentally. In this case, heat is generated inside the food using water molecules.The source of the electromagnetic radiation is the magnetron inside the microwave oven. Watch the video from Lesics for more info:
Microwave ovens heat foods quickly and efficiently because excitation is fairly uniform in the outer 25–38 mm (1–1.5 inches) of a homogeneous, high water content food item.The magnetron takes electricity from the power grid and converts it into microwaves having a frequency higher than radio waves.
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This magnetron then directs these waves over a waveguide.Furthermore, the food inside the microwave continuously rotates in a circular motion. So, it ensures even heating of the food.The invention of the cavity magnetron made possible the production of electromagnetic waves of a small enough wavelength (microwaves)./Lesics
