Calculating Microwave Oven Energy Transfer: What Information Do I Need?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the energy transferred per unit time from a microwave oven, focusing on the relationship between wavelength, magnetic field, and intensity. The original poster presents initial information including wavelength and peak magnetic field, and seeks to understand how to derive the necessary values for further calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for additional information such as the speed of light or electric field to proceed with calculations. Questions arise regarding the relationship between intensity and power, as well as the implications of using peak values versus averages.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights on how to derive intensity from the given magnetic field, while others have clarified the value of the speed of light. There is an ongoing exploration of the relationships between the variables involved, with no explicit consensus reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the presence of multiple unknowns in the problem, which complicates the calculations. The discussion reflects a learning process where assumptions and definitions are being questioned.

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Homework Statement


I need to find the energy transferred per unit time from a microwave oven, and the only information I have is:

Wavelength = .122m
Peak Magnetic Field of microwaves = 1.3*10^-5 T


Homework Equations


c=f*lambda
I = (c*B^2)/(permeability of free space) = EB / (permeability of free space)


The Attempt at a Solution


My problem is I need either "c" or "f" in c=f(lambda) OR the electric field... I think? I'm not quite sure what to do.
 
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ninjadrummer8 said:
I = (c*B^2)/(permeability of free space)

You can find I from the given B. Two more things to think about:

1. Using the peak B given will result in the peak of I. What will be the average of I?

2. How does I relate to power?
 
Ok, but I run into the same problems again. I have neither c nor E so I am stuck with 3 unknowns.
 
But you do have c. Think about it ... what is c?
 
OH! I'm an idiot. c is just the speed of light isn't it? so 2.99 x 10^8 m/s
 
ninjadrummer8 said:
c is just the speed of light isn't it? so 2.99 x 10^8 m/s

Yes.
 

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