Can You Explain Exactly How a Microwave Works?

If I ever get asked the question of how a Microwave Oven works, I could explain all the nuances of diode and capacitor arrangements, magnetron tubes and high-voltage transformers (if you're interested, here's that answer), or I could talk about how to put the bag of popcorn in, set the button for 2:00 minutes on High, pour your drink, take out the bag, enjoy the movie.

I think if someone asks me that question, they're looking for the second answer.

When we get asked, "Exactly what is RSS and how does it work?" are people asking for this answer (What is RSS/XML?) or more than likely, this answer (What's RSS?)

The second is from Seth Godin. Here's an excerpt (emphasis mine):

"RSS is just a little peep, a signal, a ping that comes from a favorite blog or site, telling your computer that it has been updated. If you have an RSS reader (and they're free and easy, and two of the easiest live on the web so you don't even have to install anything), whenever a blog is updated, it shows up in your reader and you can catch up on the news. If there's nothing new, it doesn't show up and you don't have to waste time surfing around."

I'd modify to "...whenever a blog, news page or search result is updated..."

What's your RSA (Real Simple Answer) for RSS (Really Simple Syndication)?

Technorati Tags: RSS, Feeds, Microwave Oven

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