The correct answer for why a microwave oven consumes less power is option 2: short wavelength of radiation.

Microwave ovens work by using electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range. These microwaves have a much shorter wavelength compared to other forms of radiation, such as infrared or visible light.

When microwaves are emitted from the oven, they interact with the food and cause the water molecules in the food to vibrate. This vibration produces heat, which then heats up the food.

The shorter wavelength of the microwave radiation allows it to penetrate the food and be absorbed by the water molecules more effectively. This means that the microwave oven can efficiently heat up the food without requiring a large amount of power.

If the frequency or wavelength of the radiation was larger, it would be less effective at heating up the food and would require more power to achieve the same result.

Therefore, option 2 correctly explains why a microwave oven consumes less power.