Historical Encyclopedia
The microwave oven is one of the most significant inventions of the 20th century that has radically changed how humans approach cooking. This appliance has become an indispensable assistant for millions of people around the world, allowing them to quickly heat and prepare food. In this article, we will explore the history of the microwave oven's creation, its working principle, and its impact on modern culinary practices.
The idea of using microwaves to heat food actually has its roots even before the microwave oven itself was created. In the early 20th century, scientists began researching the characteristics of electromagnetic waves, among which were microwaves that operate at frequencies from 300 MHz to 300 GHz. These waves were studied in the context of radio and television technology.
A key moment in the development of the microwave oven is associated with the name of American engineer Ray K. St. George, who in 1945 was working on radar systems for the U.S. Air Force. He noticed that a chocolate bar he had placed in his pocket melted when surrounded by microwaves. This accidental discovery soon led St. George to the idea that microwaves could be used to heat food.
After his discovery, St. George began developing a prototype microwave oven. In 1947, he and his colleagues founded the Raytheon company, which began producing the first microwave ovens for commercial use. The first models were huge and weighed nearly 350 kilograms. They were primarily used in restaurants and large kitchens, as they were not available for home use due to their cost and size.
Over time, improvements were made in the design and technology of microwave ovens. In the 1950s, mass production of smaller and more affordable models for home use began. In 1955, the microwave oven was introduced to the general public, and it quickly gained popularity due to its convenience and speed of cooking.
The microwave oven operates based on the use of electromagnetic waves that heat food. When microwaves hit the food, they make water molecules move, which generates heat. This heat is evenly distributed throughout the products, ensuring quick cooking or reheating.
With the advent of microwave ovens, there was a revolutionary change in the approach to cooking. For a long time, traditional methods such as boiling, frying, and baking took a lot of time. The microwave oven reduced cooking time, which was especially important in the fast-paced modern lifestyle.
Microwave ovens also contributed to the emergence of a new class of products – ready meals that could simply be reheated. This made food more accessible for people who did not have time to cook.
Today, microwave ovens have become integrated with other kitchen appliances and technologies. Many modern models have a variety of functions, such as grilling, convection, and steaming, which allow for the preparation of a multitude of dishes. Smart microwave ovens can be connected to the internet and controlled via mobile apps, further simplifying the cooking process.
The microwave oven, invented by Ray K. St. George in 1945, has changed the culinary world. It has not only simplified and expedited cooking but also transformed our habits regarding food. Since its introduction, the microwave oven continues to evolve and remains an important part of the kitchen in many homes around the world.