The steam engine is a type of heat engine that can convert the kinetic energy of steam into work. Since the combustion process occurs outside the engine, it is classified as an external combustion engine among heat engines. Pumps, locomotives, and ships have been driven by steam engines. The steam engine played a fundamental role in the Industrial Revolution. Today, nuclear and thermal power generation still use steam turbine engines to convert thermal energy into electrical energy. A steam engine requires a boiler to boil water and produce high-pressure steam. This boiler can use wood, coal, oil, natural gas, or even waste as a heat source. The expansion of steam pushes the piston to perform work.
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