How Microwaves Heat Water
This simulation demonstrates how microwave ovens heat water by causing polar molecules (like water) to rotate:
- Microwave Radiation: The oven emits electromagnetic waves (typically at 2.45 GHz).
- Molecular Alignment: Water molecules (H₂O) are polar - they have a positive and negative end.
- Rotation: The alternating electric field causes molecules to constantly realign (North-South, South-North).
- Friction: This rapid rotation creates molecular friction, which generates heat.
- Temperature Rise: As energy transfers to the molecules, the water temperature increases.
Note: In reality, microwaves don't directly increase temperature - they increase molecular kinetic energy which manifests as heat.