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Old September 21st, 2006, 11:02
gatorman952 gatorman952 is offline
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Default dipole polarization

Dipole polarization or polarizability is the ability of a molecule with a dipole moment to align itself with an electric field.

Remember, light consists of oscillating magnetic and electric fields at a 90 degree angle to each other. So for molecules with a dipole moment, when exposed to light of the correct frequency, they will try to align themselves with the electric field in the light.

This is the basis of how a microwave oven works. If you need more explanation or want to see the more detailed information for yourself, check on Wikipedia.

Look up:
Microwaves
Microwave oven
Microwave chemistry
electric permittivity

~Richard