Microwave Ovens

The principles of dielectric heating were first applied to industrial uses during the late 1930s (2:401-402). Then during World War II the electronics company, Raytheon, began mass-producing small microwave transmitters called magnetrons. Although these power sources were initially used in radar, they were soon considered for other purposes. By 1952, Raytheon researcher, Percy Spencer, had a patent for a microwave oven. While this first oven "stood as tall as a man," subsequent innovation led to dramatic design improvement (7:54-60). Microwave ovens are currently produced by several different countries for a variety of purposes. In 1991, Andrews estimated world-wide production at roughly 30 million per year (4:102-108). According to Roman (1989) there are over 60 million microwave ovens in American homes alone (7:54-60).

Perhaps the most important component of

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can keep charged water molecules constantly spinning. This movement will generate heat which, in turn, may be dissipated to surrounding molecules. Ultimately, the overall process raises the temperature of both the water molecules and their surrounding environment (8:474-476). Conventional ovens heat the outside of foods. In contrast, microwave ovens deliver their energy directly to whatever is being cooked. The air within a microwave oven remains cool, while the water within its cooking food is converted to steam (3:C8). Although there are many advantages associated with the use of microwave ovens, the devises also pose certain safety problems. One such potential health hazard consists of microwave radiation leakage. Excessive exposure to this radiation can result in microwave hyperthermia. This condition may be associated with painful burns and blisters (7:58). Moreover, in addition to 2450 megahertz radiation, exposures to elevated electric and magnetic fields might also have an adverse affect on health (4:102-108). Of course, microwave oven emissions are regulated. For example, according to the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, rule 21 CFR 1030.10 defines microwave performance standards a
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Approximate Word count = 1734
Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page)

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