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Steam engines

Definition

Steam engines were machines powered by steam that played a crucial role in driving industrial machinery during the Industrial Revolution. They converted thermal energy generated by burning coal into mechanical work, revolutionizing transportation, manufacturing processes, and powering various industries.

Analogy

Steam engines are like powerful superheroes with incredible strength. Just as superheroes use their powers for various tasks, steam engines harnessed their power through steam to propel trains, operate factories, and transform industries.

Related terms

Railways: Railways were systems of tracks on which steam-powered locomotives ran. They facilitated faster transportation of goods and people over long distances during the Industrial Revolution.

Textile Industry: The textile industry involved mass production of cloth and fabrics using machinery powered by steam engines. It was one of the first industries to adopt mechanization on a large scale.

Coal Mining: Coal mining refers to extracting coal from underground mines. The demand for coal increased significantly during the Industrial Revolution as it was the primary fuel used to power steam engines.