mikroaaltosäteitä

Mikroaaltosäteily, commonly known as microwave radiation, refers to electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths ranging from about one meter to one millimeter, or equivalently, frequencies between 300 MHz (0.3 GHz) and 300 GHz. This portion of the electromagnetic spectrum falls between radio waves and infrared radiation. Microwaves are generated by various sources, including magnetrons, klystrons, and semiconductor devices.

The properties of microwaves make them useful in numerous applications. One of the most familiar is microwave ovens, which use microwaves to heat food by causing water molecules within the food to vibrate rapidly, generating heat through dielectric heating. Telecommunications heavily rely on microwaves for point-to-point communication links, satellite communication, and cellular phone networks due to their ability to carry large amounts of data and travel long distances. Radar systems also utilize microwaves for detecting objects, measuring their speed, and determining their location.

In scientific research, microwaves are employed in fields such as spectroscopy, where they are used to study the molecular structure and energy levels of substances. They also find applications in medical treatments, like hyperthermia therapy for cancer. While generally considered safe when used within established exposure limits, prolonged or high-intensity exposure to microwaves can potentially cause heating of biological tissues.