gs1medium
If a potato is placed on a pure paper plate which is white and unprinted and put in a microwave oven, the potato heats up but the paper plate does not. This is because
- A.Potato is mainly made up of starch whereas paper is mainly made up of cellulose
- B.Potato transmits microwaves whereas paper reflects microwaves
- C.Potato contains water whereas paper does not contain water
- D.Potato is a fresh organic material whereas paper is a dead organic material
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: C. Potato contains water whereas paper does not contain water
Microwave ovens heat food by causing water molecules within the food to vibrate rapidly. Potatoes are rich in water content, which efficiently absorbs microwave radiation and heats up. Paper, even though organic, has a very low water content, and therefore does not absorb microwave energy effectively, remaining relatively cool.
Source: UPSC gs1 2010