Microwave

Updated: 03/05/2023 by Computer Hope
Telecommunications tower blue icon.

A microwave is a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between 0.001 and 0.3 meters, and a frequency range of 1 to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Slotted between infrared and radio waves on the electromagnetic spectrum, microwaves have many practical applications, including those detailed below.

Where and how are microwaves used?

Some uses and applications of microwaves include the following.

  • Point-to-point communication - Wi-Fi, cellular networks, and satellites all use microwaves to send and receive information.
  • Radar - Originally used in World War II, radar technology utilizes microwaves to detect objects and terrain changes.
  • Cooking - The microwave oven is a common household appliance that uses microwaves to excite water molecules in a medium. The heat generated by this process is used to warm or cook your favorite food items and beverages.
  • Automotive - Microwaves are used with keyless entry systems, garage door opening devices, and collision avoidance safety systems.

Electronics terms, IEEE, Infrared, Medium, Radiation, Radio frequency, Telecommunications