MICROWAVES

EQUIPMENT
   Microwave Generator Device



NARRATIVE
       The microwave generator consists of an oscillator and an antenna with a horn detector (receiver). The output may be only the oscillator signal or an external input such as a record turntable may be connected to the amplifier. The pickup consists of an antenna and detector connected to an audio amplifier.

    Polarization
              By alignment and misalignment the receiving antenna with the transmitting antenna, it can be demonstrated that the waves are polarized. An analyzer consists of a circular grating of parallel rods about 1 cm apart. When the rods are aligned parallel to the transmitting antenna, the waves will be absorbed by generating a field in the rods. When the rods are perpendicular to the transmitting antenna, the waves are not absorbed but are allowed to pass through.

    Standing Waves by Reflection
              Place the solid aluminum circular disc about 1 meter from the transmitting antenna. Arrange this reflector so that it reflects the transmitted waves back upon themselves. Move the pickup between the transmitter and reflector to find nodes and anti-nodes of the standing waves. The nodes are about 6 cm apart.

    Laws of Reflection
              The laws of reflection can be demonstrated using the solid aluminum circular disk as a mirror and the pickup as the eye.