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How Does the Microwave Work?
Microwaves are a from of high frequency radio
waves similar to those used by a radio including AM,
FM and CB. They are, however, much shorter than
radio waves; approximately 12 cm long.
Electricity is converted into microwave energy by the
magnetron tube. From the magnetron tube,
microwave energy is transmitted and absorbed.
Reflection
Microwaves are reflected by metal just as a ball is
bounsed off a wall. A combination of stationary
(interior walls) and rotating antenna, located
underneath the bottom shelf assure that the
microwaves are well distributed within the oven
cavity to produce even heating or cooking of foods.
Transmission
Microwaves pass through some materials such as
paper, glass and plastic much like sunlight shining
through a window. Because these substances do
not absorb or reflect the microwave energy, they are
ideal materials for microwave oven heating
containers.
Absorption
During heating, microwaves will be absorbed by
food. They penetrate to a depth of about 1- 5 cm
Microwave energy excites the molecules in the food
(especially water, fat and suger molecules), and
causes them to vibrate at a rate of 2,450,000,000
times per second. This vibration causes friction, and
heat is produced just as you will feel heat produced
if you vigorouslu rub your hands together. The
internal heating of larger foods is done by
conduction. The heat which is produced by friction
travels by conduction to the centre of the food.
Foods also continue to heat by conduction during
standing time.
Because microwaves dissipate, much like sunlight
as it reaches the Earth’s surface, they are not stored
in food.
Radio Interference
1. Operation of the microwave oven may sause
interference to your radio, TV or similar
equipment.
2. When there is interference, it may be redused or
eliminated by taking the following measures:
a. Clean the door and sealed surfaces of the
oven. (See Care of Your Microwave Oven
found on page 18.)
b. Place the radio, TV, etc. as far away as
possible, from the microwave.
c. Use a properly installed antenna, to obtain
srtonger signal reception.
