Re: ATM pitch in microwave ovens

[astillma@nit.AirTouch.COM (Anthony Stillman)]

No offence, but microwave heating functions by inducing occilation in bi-polar moculars.  
As it happens water is a bi-polar but so are many other things.  For instance ammonia 
(don't!! try this at home) or alcohol (this can be fun, but be prepaired to clean up the 
mess).  Metal in the mircowave is a bad idea in general for two reasons.  First, it 
reflects the energy which can both create high energy regions and toast the inner 
workings.  Second, at sharp edges and points larege potential differences can be created 
relative to other loactions, hence arcing.  However, properly designed (no edges, no 
sharp points, all reflections accounted for) metal components can and are placed within 
microwaves.  Unless you really understand how your microwave generates and distributes 
its energy as well as have a good understanding of E&M leave the metal out.  Just warm 
the sake for 2 or 3 seconds.

Anthony
2 days and counting to RTMC