A Closer Look at Microwave Pizzas & Their Cardboard Disks

Thread starter Math Is Hard
Start date Oct 23, 2004
Tags

Microwave

AI Thread Summary

Microwave pizzas often come with a special cardboard disk that absorbs microwaves, heating the crust while preventing it from becoming soggy. However, this disk does not effectively heat the cheese and toppings, which may require additional microwaving after removing the disk. The reflective silver coating on the disk absorbs microwaves due to the different frequencies of microwaves compared to visible light, causing the electrons in the metal to heat up. Users have shared various experimental uses of microwaves, including heating unconventional items, which can lead to interesting results but also potential hazards. Overall, the discussion highlights the unique properties of microwaves and the science behind their interaction with materials.

Jul 2, 2009

negitron

Science Advisor

Math Is Hard said:

Has anyone tried microwaving a flourescent light bulb? I guess finding one that fits would be a challenge.

Compact fluorescents. You need to snap the base apart and separate the electronics from the tube (usually, you can just pry the base halves apart at the seam with a thin-bladed screwdriver--it just snaps together). The tube alone will not explode. The glass, however, can get very hot and even melt if left in too long. At that point, it'll just pop and all the gas will escape (warning: contains small amounts of mercury vapor) and the show's over.