There were two objectives in our science fair experiment. The primary aim was to determine whether or not exposure to microwave radiation could cause mutations in the plasmid DNA sequences of living bacterial cells. If mutations did occur, the next aim was to determine which part of the microwave releases the most radiation waves. Four 1.5-milliliter cultures of bacteria, containing PGCM1 plasmids, were obtained: one control group and three experimental groups. Each experimental group was taped on a different location on the microwave: one on the outside, one on the door, one on the vent, and one under the microwave.

After 30 minutes of exposure to radiation, each culture’s plasmids were isolated and purified. Then the plasmids were digested using the restriction enzymes, BAMH1 and ECOR1, to break down the 4.9-kilobase PGCM1 sequence. The last step was to run the fragments in solidified 1.0% agarose via gel electrophoresis. The most dramatic mutations were evident in the culture that was placed on the vent.