If something that should take 3 minutes in the microwave ends up taking half an hour or longer, it is not due to microwave-specific time dilation or supernatural phenomenon. Instead, this kind of discrepancy is typically caused by a malfunction or issue with the microwave itself.
There are several possible explanations for such a problem:
Malfunctioning microwave: The microwave's internal components, such as the magnetron (the device that generates microwaves), timer, or control circuits, may be malfunctioning, leading to inaccurate or slow heating.
Power supply issues: Insufficient power supply or irregular power fluctuations could lead to the microwave not functioning properly and taking longer to heat food.
Incorrect settings: Double-check to ensure that the microwave settings (power level, time, etc.) are set correctly. Human error, such as accidentally selecting the wrong settings, can cause extended heating times.
Overheating or safety features: Some microwaves have built-in safety features that cause them to shut down or reduce power output if they detect overheating. If the microwave becomes too hot, it may pause and resume heating once it has cooled down, which can extend the overall cooking time.
Regardless of the specific cause, using a malfunctioning microwave can be potentially hazardous and is not recommended. If you experience such significant discrepancies in cooking times, it's best to stop using the microwave and have it checked or repaired by a qualified technician.
In summary, it's not a microwave-specific time dilation or supernatural phenomenon causing the extended cooking time; it's more likely to be a technical issue with the microwave itself.