No, it is not necessary to turn on the microwave while baking or reheating food. In fact, microwaves are primarily used for heating or cooking food through the use of electromagnetic radiation. However, there are certain microwave ovens that come with additional features such as convection or grill functions, which allow you to use them for baking or grilling as well.
If you want to bake or reheat food in a traditional manner, you would typically use an oven or stovetop. Ovens provide a controlled environment with heating elements, while stovetops use direct heat from burners or flames. These methods are commonly used for baking, roasting, and reheating food.
Microwaves, on the other hand, use microwaves to agitate water molecules in food, generating heat and heating the food from within. While microwaves can be convenient for reheating leftovers or quickly cooking certain foods, they may not provide the same results as traditional baking or cooking methods for certain dishes.
If you're looking for a more traditional baking experience, using an oven or stovetop is generally recommended. However, if your microwave has additional functions like convection baking, you can use it for certain baking tasks as well. It's important to consult the user manual of your specific microwave model for instructions on how to use its features effectively and safely.