Why are steam turbines widely used in electric power stations and large high-speed ships?

Steam turbines are widely utilized in electric power stations and large, high-speed ships primarily because of their ability to generate tremendous power within a comparatively small space.1

The steam turbine was a major technological innovation that solved the problem of achieving the high rotational speeds necessary for efficient electricity generation, which were beyond the range of traditional reciprocating steam engines. By passing steam through a series of rotors, the turbine converts the thermal energy of steam into rapid, circular motion, making it an ideal prime mover for driving generators.2

In marine applications, steam turbines provide the high power output required for large, high-speed vessels. Their efficiency and capacity have been vastly increased over the last century through the use of multistage designs, which allow for the extraction of energy in small, controlled steps. Furthermore, steam turbines remain the standard for nuclear power plants, as they effectively harness the energy produced by reactors to generate electricity.132