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magnetron
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A demonstration showing how microwaves heat food, based on technology developed from Raytheon's wartime magnetron research.
Diagram showing the main components of a magnetron, including a cross-section with magnets, cooling fins, output antenna, ceramic insulator, and a detailed view of the anode, cathode, electron paths, cavities, and RF fields.
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magnetron

electronics
Also known as: cavity magnetron oscillator
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A demonstration showing how microwaves heat food, based on technology developed from Raytheon's wartime magnetron research.
How microwaves cook foodDiscover how microwave technology, first refined by Raytheon for radar, led to the microwave oven.
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magnetron, diode vacuum tube consisting of a cylindrical (straight wire) cathode and a coaxial anode, between which a dc (direct current) potential creates an electric field. A magnetic field is applied longitudinally by an external magnet. Connected to a resonant line, it can act as an oscillator. Magnetrons are capable of generating extremely high frequencies and also short bursts of very high power. They are an important source of power in radar systems and in microwave ovens.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Michele Metych.