What is microwave theory based on?

Microwave theory is fundamentally based on electromagnetic waves. These waves are a part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes a range of frequencies. Microwaves specifically operate at frequencies typically ranging from about 300 MHz (0.3 GHz) to 300 GHz, bridging the gap between radio waves and infrared radiation.

Electromagnetic waves consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields and can travel through a vacuum without the need for a medium, which makes them suitable for various applications, including telecommunications and cooking in microwave ovens. When discussing microwave technology, it's essential to understand concepts such as wave propagation, reflection, transmission, and diffraction, all of which are derived from the principles governing electromagnetic waves.

In contrast, while electromagnetic fields are important, they are a consequence of electromagnetic waves rather than the foundation of microwave theory itself. Mechanical waves and acoustic waves involve physical media for propagation and are not applicable in the context of microwave technology, which relies solely on the behavior and properties of electromagnetic waves.