A microwave oven uses a form of electromagnetic radiation known as microwaves to cook or heat food. Specifically, it utilizes microwave radiation.
Microwaves are a type of electromagnetic wave with a relatively long wavelength and low frequency. In a microwave oven, an electronic component called a magnetron generates microwaves. These microwaves are then directed into the cooking chamber, where they interact with the food.
When the microwaves enter the cooking chamber, they pass through the food and cause the water molecules within the food to vibrate rapidly. This vibration creates friction and generates heat, which cooks the food.
Convection, on the other hand, is a different cooking method that relies on the circulation of hot air or liquid to transfer heat to food. Convection ovens and stovetop cooking are examples of convection cooking, where the surrounding air or liquid transfers heat to the food.
While microwave ovens primarily use microwave radiation to cook food, some modern microwave models also incorporate convection functionality. These combination microwave ovens can utilize both microwave radiation and convection heating methods, offering a wider range of cooking options.