How Does The Microwave Work - Panasonic NB-1024 Operating Instructions Manual

How Does The Microwave Work?
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Microwaves are a form 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 five
inches 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 bounced
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 cavitv
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 heatino containers.
Absorption
During heating, microwaves will be absorbed by food. They
penetrate to a depth of about 3/, to 1'lz-inches. Microwave
energy excites the molecules in the food (especially water, fat
and sugar 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 leel heat
produced if you vigorously 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
center 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, thev are not stored in food.
Radio Interference
1. Operation of the microwave oven may cause interference to
your radio, TV or similar equipment.
2. When there is interference, it may be reduced or eliminated
by taking the following measures:
a. Clean door and sealing sufaces of the oven. See Care
of Your Microwave Oven found on page 18.)
b. Place the radio, TV, etc, away from the microwave oven
as far as possible.
c. Use a properly installed antenna, to obtain stronger
signal reception.
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