Which type of electromagnetic waves is commonly used in microwave ovens and cell phone communications?

• A. Microwaves
• B. Ultraviolet waves
• C. Infrared waves
• D. Gamma rays

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes different types of waves such as gamma rays, ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwaves, and radio waves, each with different wavelengths and frequencies.
2. Recall that microwave ovens use electromagnetic waves that can cause water molecules to vibrate, producing heat; this corresponds to microwaves in the spectrum.
3. Recognize that cell phone communications also rely on electromagnetic waves that can carry signals over distances without ionizing effects, which are typically microwaves.
4. Eliminate other options: ultraviolet waves have higher energy and are not used for heating or communication in this context; infrared waves are associated with heat but not commonly used in cell phones; gamma rays are high-energy and not used for everyday communication or cooking.
5. Conclude that the type of electromagnetic waves commonly used in both microwave ovens and cell phone communications is microwaves.