No, running a microwave for 2 minutes at 50% power is not the same as running it for 1 minute at full power. The power level setting on a microwave determines the percentage of time the microwave emits microwaves during the cooking cycle.
When you run a microwave at 50% power for 2 minutes, the microwave will cycle between full power and no power approximately every second. It will alternate between emitting microwaves and not emitting microwaves to achieve an overall 50% power level for the entire 2-minute duration.
On the other hand, when you run the microwave at full power for 1 minute, it operates at 100% power for the entire duration.
The difference in power level and cooking time will affect the way the food is heated. For example, if you are cooking something that requires precise and consistent heating, like certain recipes, it's better to use full power for a shorter time. However, if you want to heat or cook something more gently or avoid overheating, using a lower power level for a longer time can be beneficial.
Always follow the recommended cooking guidelines for your specific microwave and the food you are preparing to ensure safe and proper cooking.