In a microwave, it’s the magnetron (a high voltage motor used for creating microwaves) that’s responsible for heating our food. As high voltage from a transformer feeds the magnetron, an internal filament (cathode) heats and emits energy.
Electrons fly out toward positive terminals (anode). However, a round magnet inside the magnetron bends electrons back to the filament. The action of electrons emitted from the filament and back again to the anode creates microwaves.
Microwaves get transmitted by an antenna internal to the magnetron and reflect off a device called a spinner located inside the microwave cavity. The spinner contacts the microwaves and as they reflect, they’re absorbed by water molecules in food. This action causes molecules to vibrate, creating friction and heat.
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