Microwave ovens have been around for several decades. The first microwave oven was developed in the 1940s by a team of engineers at Raytheon Corporation. The engineers, Percy Spencer and his colleagues, were working on radar technology during World War II when they noticed that a candy bar in Spencer's pocket had melted due to the microwaves generated by the radar system.
Intrigued by this observation, Spencer and his team began experimenting with using microwaves to heat food intentionally. In 1945, they developed the first microwave oven, which was called the "Radarange." It was a large and expensive device primarily used in industrial and commercial settings.
Microwave ovens became more compact and affordable over time, and by the 1960s and 1970s, they started gaining popularity in households. The technology continued to advance, leading to the introduction of features like digital controls, automatic timers, and preset cooking functions.
Today, microwave ovens are a common kitchen appliance found in homes, offices, and various food service establishments. They have become an integral part of modern cooking and have greatly influenced the way we prepare and heat food.