Who Smarted? - Trusty Trivia: MICROWAVE OVENS!!!

Episode date: February 5, 2026
Host/guest narrator: Chet Nickerson (guest host for Trusty)

Episode Theme:

This special Trusty Trivia episode dives into the science behind microwave ovens—how they work, the waves they use, and why you should never put metal inside. Geared for curious kids (and adults!), the episode blends fast-paced quirky trivia with fun facts and playful banter, making learning about everyday kitchen science entertaining and memorable.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Introduction & Shout Outs

• [01:37] Chet Nickerson fills in for Trusty, humorously noting Trusty is “busy training for an all you can eat pizza contest.”
• Shout out to listener Leland in Kappaspell, Montana. Leland and his class are recognized as loyal “Who Smarted?” fans.
  • “Way to go, Leland. And now let’s microwave some knowledge.” – Chet Nickerson [02:00]

2. How Does a Microwave Oven Heat Food?

• Chet's first trivia question breaks down the science in a fun multiple choice format:
  • Question: “How does a microwave oven heat food? Is it A) by blowing hot air, B) by vibrating water molecules, or C) by yelling at it?” [02:18]
• Correct answer: B – by vibrating water molecules.
  • “Microwaves make water molecules vibrate, which creates heat and warms your food from the inside out.” – Chet Nickerson [02:28]
• The concept of microwaves heating “from the inside out” is playfully reinforced to highlight the unique way microwaves work.

3. What Kind of Waves Does a Microwave Use?

• Second trivia question explores the type of energy used:
  • Question: “What kind of waves does a microwave oven use? Is it A) sound waves, B) radio waves, or C) ocean waves?” [02:42]
• Correct answer: B – radio waves.
  • “You’re on the right frequency. Microwave ovens use radio waves, a type of electromagnetic wave.” – Chet Nickerson [02:52]
• Fun wordplay with “right frequency” connects the science concept to vocabulary kids may have heard but not understood.

4. Why Should Metal NOT Go in the Microwave?

• The third question addresses a common kitchen warning:
  • Question: “Why should metal not go in a microwave? Is it A) because it can cause sparks, B) it melts instantly, or C) it gets lonely?” [03:09]
• Correct answer: A – because it can cause sparks.
  • “Sparktacular thinking! Metal reflects microwaves and can cause sparks or even fires. So never put any metal inside a microwave.” – Chet Nickerson [03:17]
• The real-world consequence (sparks, fires) is highlighted in a kid-friendly, memorable way.

5. Episode Wrap-Up

• Chet thanks listeners and reminds them to check out the full-length microwave oven episode in the archives for a deeper dive:
  • “That was electrifying, smartypants!”
  • “Join us next week for more high powered trivia.” [03:31]

Memorable Quotes & Moments

• “Let’s microwave some knowledge!” – Chet Nickerson [02:00]
• “Microwaves make water molecules vibrate, which creates heat and warms your food from the inside out.” – Chet Nickerson [02:28]
• “You’re on the right frequency. Microwave ovens use radio waves, a type of electromagnetic wave.” – Chet Nickerson [02:52]
• “Sparktacular thinking!” – Chet Nickerson [03:17]
• “That was electrifying, smartypants!” – Chet Nickerson [03:31]

Important Segment Timestamps

| Time | Segment | |-----------|------------------------------------------------| | 01:37 | Chet Nickerson introduces the topic | | 02:18 | Q1: How does a microwave oven heat food? | | 02:42 | Q2: What kind of waves does a microwave use? | | 03:09 | Q3: Why can’t you put metal inside? | | 03:31 | Show wrap-up and trivia recap |

Tone and Style

• Upbeat, playful, and humorous: Jokes, puns, and silly answer choices (“by yelling at it,” “it gets lonely”) keep kids engaged.
• Direct address to listeners: “Smartypants,” “Way to go, Leland,” and “Join us next week…” make the audience feel included and special.
• Educational focus: Every joke and question is closely tied to a real scientific fact, driving home the core learning while keeping it fun and interactive.

Summary

This Trusty Trivia edition on microwave ovens is a short, high-energy burst of science, ideal for young minds. By combining humor with clear, accurate explanations, Chet Nickerson makes learning about kitchen science an adventure. Kids come away understanding the basics of how microwaves work, the types of waves involved, and why safety warnings matter—all with a smile.

Perfect for a classroom science warm-up, a quick car ride, or family listening, this episode showcases why “Who Smarted?” is a favorite for both fun and facts.