Yes, microwaves do weaken over time and distance from the source. The power of microwave radiation follows the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation decreases as the square of the distance from the source increases.
When a microwave oven is operating, it emits electromagnetic waves, which are a form of radiation, into the oven cavity. These waves are then absorbed by the food, causing it to heat up. However, as the waves propagate outward from the oven, they spread out and dissipate, resulting in a decrease in intensity.
The weakening of microwaves with distance also occurs outside the oven. If you move away from a microwave oven while it is operating, the intensity of the microwave radiation you are exposed to decreases as you increase your distance from the oven.
It's important to note that the rate at which microwaves weaken over distance depends on several factors, including the power output of the oven and the specific characteristics of the electromagnetic waves. However, in general, the intensity decreases significantly as you move farther away from the source.
While the weakening of microwaves over time and distance reduces their potential impact, it's still advisable to maintain a reasonable distance from the oven during operation to minimize exposure. Following the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for safe usage is recommended to ensure the proper functioning and safety of the microwave oven.