Microwaves - GCSE Physics Definition

Microwaves are a type of electromagnetic wave, and have wavelengths which are between 1 mm and 30 cm. They are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, and have longer wavelengths than infrared waves but shorter wavelengths than radio waves. Microwaves are used in many everyday technologies, such as microwave ovens for heating food and mobile phones for communication. In a microwave oven, these waves cause water molecules in the food to vibrate, which produces heat and cooks the food. Microwaves are also used in radar systems to detect objects and for satellite communications.