What principle is a steam turbine's operation based on?

A steam turbine operates based on the principle of converting thermal energy from steam into mechanical energy. In this process, high-pressure steam produced in a boiler expands and passes through the turbine blades, causing the turbine to spin. This mechanical motion can then be harnessed to drive generators or perform mechanical work, such as turning a pump.

The conversion of thermal energy to mechanical energy is fundamental to the steam turbine's operation because the energy contained in the steam, which originates from heated water, is what drives the turbine. The efficiency of this conversion is crucial in power generation, making steam turbines a key component in many power plants.

Understanding this principle is essential because it emphasizes the importance of energy transformation in thermal systems and underlines the role of steam turbines in converting the energy generated from heat into usable power.