Microwave Safety
aligned to Nyssls Hs-ps3-5 Develop And Use A Model Of Two Objects Interacting Through Electric Or Magnetic Fields To Illustrate The Forces Between Objects And The Changes In Energy Of The Objects Due To The Interaction
Learning Objective
I can use a model to explain how microwaves transfer energy and discuss potential safety concerns.
Lesson Flow
Watch Video
Why can't you put metal in a microwave? - Aaron Slepkov
TED-Ed
Guided Notes
Key concepts students will learn:
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Microwaves heat food by making polar molecules like water vibrate, creating frictional heat.
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Metals are conductors, so the electrons concentrate on the surface, leading to high voltages at sharp edges, corners, and small gaps, which can cause sparking.
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Microwave radiation is not ionizing and does not alter food chemically, but transfers energy through friction.
Practice
12 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
“Explain how microwaves heat food using a model that describes the interaction between microwaves and water molecules. Also, discuss one potential safety concern associated with microwave ovens, as mentioned in the video.”
Teacher Guide
Get the complete package:
- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
- Extension activities
- Printable student handouts
