mikrobølger

Mikrobølger, or microwaves, refer to the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum with frequencies from about 1 gigahertz (GHz) to 300 GHz, corresponding to wavelengths from 0.3 meters down to 1 millimeter. They are higher in frequency than radio waves and lower than infrared radiation, and they interact with matter in characteristic ways, including heating of water-containing substances.

Generation and propagation: Mikrobølger are produced by devices such as magnetrons, klystrons, and, at lower powers, solid-state amplifiers. They are commonly guided in waveguides or transmitted through free space and travel best with line-of-sight propagation. Higher-frequency microwaves are strongly attenuated by atmospheric moisture, rain, and oxygen, limiting long-range terrestrial transmission but enabling controlled focusing in radar, satellite links, and wireless networks.

Applications: The technology has wide-ranging uses. In communications, microwaves enable satellite links, point-to-point backhaul, and wireless networks (including consumer technologies and radar systems). In radar, microwaves provide high-resolution detection of objects and weather patterns. In cooking, microwave ovens use dielectric heating to heat foods quickly. Other applications include medical therapies, spectroscopy, and industrial processing.

Safety and regulation: Exposure to high-power microwaves can cause localized heating and tissue damage, so guidelines regulate permissible exposure levels. Industry standards and national/regional regulations govern operator safety, shielding, and device emissions. Engineers design systems to minimize unintended exposure and environmental impact while leveraging the advantages of microwave technology.