A memorable origin needs evidenceSourced
The melted-candy story is not securely documented
Percy Spencer’s microwave work is often introduced through a candy bar melting in his pocket. Credible primary sources verifying that anecdote are lacking. Raytheon’s 1945 patent application for a microwave cooking oven is documented. The development record and the attractive origin story should be distinguished.
A good anecdote is not automatically a confirmed explanation.
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Percy Spencer · Wikimedia contributors
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Reviewed: 2026-10-05