Why can microwaves travel both through empty spaces and through air and food?

PLEASE HELP!! :)

Microwaves are electromagnetic waves (like radio and TV signals).

Microwaves, a form of electromagnetic radiation, can travel through empty spaces, air, and food due to a few key characteristics. Here's how it works:

1. Electromagnetic waves: Microwaves belong to the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes various types of waves such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared waves, visible light, ultraviolet waves, X-rays, and gamma rays. These waves are generated by the movement of electrically charged particles.

2. Composition of air and empty spaces: Air and empty spaces consist of atoms and molecules, which have electrically charged particles (electrons) that are capable of interacting with electromagnetic waves. When microwaves pass through these regions, they interact with the charged particles in the atoms and molecules, causing them to oscillate and re-emit the waves. This allows microwaves to propagate through air and empty spaces.

3. Food interactions: Foods, particularly those containing water molecules, are also composed of atoms and molecules. The water molecules contain electrically charged particles (both positive and negative) that can significantly interact with microwaves. Microwaves have a unique property: they are specifically absorbed by water molecules, causing the molecules to vibrate rapidly, generating heat. This heat is then conducted throughout the food, leading to even cooking or heating.

Overall, whether in empty spaces, air, or food, microwaves can travel because they interact with electrically charged particles present in those environments. However, it's important to note that different materials and substances can affect the behavior of microwaves, so it's crucial to follow proper safety guidelines and use microwave-safe containers when using a microwave oven.