Everyday Science · 45 sec
Steam engine
The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.
The useful idea
- The useful idea
A steam engine is a heat engine that performs mechanical work using steam as its working fluid.
- How it works
The steam engine uses the force produced by steam pressure to push a piston back and forth inside a cylinder.
- Why it matters
This pushing force can be transformed by a connecting rod and crank into rotational force for work.
Why this matters
Look for Steam engine the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Steam engine the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Steam engine?
- How it works
- The useful idea — correct
- Why it matters
A steam engine is a heat engine that performs mechanical work using steam as its working fluid.