In a magnetron, high voltage is applied to which element?

In a magnetron, high voltage is applied specifically to the cathode. The cathode is a crucial component in the magnetron, emitting electrons when heated. When a high voltage is applied to the cathode, it creates an intense electric field that accelerates these emitted electrons towards the anode. The interaction between the magnetic field and the moving electrons generates microwave oscillations, which are then transmitted through the output section of the magnetron.

The other components mentioned, such as the anode and waveguide, serve different purposes within the system. While the anode does play a role in the overall function of the magnetron, it is not the component to which the high voltage is directly applied. The waveguide helps to direct the microwave energy produced by the magnetron but does not receive the high voltage. The plate cap is typically used to shield components and may help in heat dissipation but is not the element that receives the high voltage either. Thus, the application of high voltage to the cathode is essential for the normal operation of a magnetron in generating microwave frequencies.