Class #5: Microwave Cooking Flashcards
True or False: Microwaves create non-ionizing radiation
True
What is the microwave generator called?
Magnetron
What is the power output of a general use microwave vs a commercial one?
500-750W Vs. 1000-1300W
Define Dielectric heating.
High frequency alternating electromagnetic field, reverses polarity
Define Dipolar rotation
Type of dielectric heating. Changing polarity forces polar molecules to flip around, generating friction.
Define Ionic Conduction
Type of dielectric heating. Ions oscillate under microwaves to create electric current, creating collisions.
True or False: Microwaves transfer heat via convection.
False, they generate heat with friction and transfer it by conduction.
Why shouldn’t you use paper bags in the microwave?
They’ll catch on fire.
Why shouldn’t you use metal in the microwave?
The microwaves will bounce off metal, and can ionize air, creating sparks.
Why do we pierce sausages and potatoes before microwaving?
They can explode because of H2O expansion
True or False: Microwaves act mostly on fat.
False: they act mostly on water.
Define standing time.
The amount of time it takes for food molecules to stop vibrating after leaving the microwave.
Why shouldn’t you cook meat in the microwave?
- The temperature is not high enough to kill pathogens
- Dries meat, no maillard=no flavour developed
Why shouldn’t you bake bread in the microwave?
No dry heat for dextrinization (Starch+heat=dextrins=browning)
