The discussion centers on public concerns regarding microwave radiation, particularly its penetrating ability compared to infrared radiation. Participants highlight that excessive exposure to microwave radiation can theoretically cause harm, such as brain damage, and can interfere with medical devices like pacemakers. The conversation also touches on the irrational fears surrounding various forms of radiation, emphasizing that media portrayal often exacerbates these worries. The presence of safety features in microwaves, such as special doors, is noted as a precautionary measure to prevent accidents.
PREREQUISITESThis discussion is beneficial for health professionals, appliance safety engineers, and individuals interested in understanding public concerns about microwave radiation and its implications for health and safety.
Because microwave radiation is more penetrating than infrared. Too much microwave radiation can cook your brain inside your skull, to cite an unlikely, though theoretically possible, scenario.fangrz said:Why do people worry so much about microwave radiation if it has less energy than infrared (heat) radiation? Why do they worry about STANDING near microwaves versus standing near heat sources? Why do they worry about using it to heat up their food if it's lower in energy than infrared?
fangrz said:Why do people worry so much about microwave radiation if it has less energy than infrared (heat) radiation? Why do they worry about STANDING near microwaves versus standing near heat sources? Why do they worry about using it to heat up their food if it's lower in energy than infrared?
If the media were rational about this sort of thing then they could not entertain their audience. No one ever wants to do the sums before panicking about something.ZapperZ said:People also worry about EM radiation from power lines, about the possibility of catastrophic black holes at the LHC, about any level of radiation, etc... etc. You are asking why some people are irrational. Is there really an answer for such a thing?
Zz.
SteamKing said:Because microwave radiation is more penetrating than infrared. Too much microwave radiation can cook your brain inside your skull, to cite an unlikely, though theoretically possible, scenario.
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/radiation/gl_radio_2.php
Microwave radiation can also interfere with medical devices, like pacemakers, which some people depend on to keep them alive.