The key characteristics of microwave radiation include the following:
- Frequency Range:
Microwaves occupy the electromagnetic spectrum between 1 GHz and 300 GHz. - Wavelength Range:
Their wavelengths range from 30 centimeters to 1 millimeter, making them shorter than radio waves but longer than infrared radiation. - Non-Ionizing:
Microwaves do not have enough energy to ionize atoms, meaning they do not remove electrons from atoms and are generally considered safe at low exposure levels. - Line-of-Sight Propagation:
Microwaves travel in straight lines and do not easily bend around obstacles, which is why they are used in point-to-point communication systems like satellite links and radar. - Interaction with Water and Polar Molecules:
Microwaves are strongly absorbed by water, fat, and sugar molecules, causing them to vibrate and produce heat—this is the basis of microwave cooking. - Reflection by Metals:
Metals reflect microwaves, which is why metal objects can cause sparks or damage in microwave ovens. - Penetration Ability:
Microwaves can penetrate non-metallic materials like plastic, glass, and paper, which makes them useful for heating and communication. - Used in Wireless Technology:
Microwaves support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile networks, satellite, and radar systems due to their ability to carry high data rates.