How do thermal power plants convert heat to electricity?

Thermal power plants convert heat to electricity through a process called the Rankine cycle.

The Rankine cycle is a thermodynamic cycle that converts heat into work, which is then used to generate electricity. This process is the fundamental principle behind thermal power plants, which use heat sources such as coal, gas, or nuclear energy to generate electricity.

The process begins with the heating of a working fluid, usually water, in a boiler. The heat source, which could be coal, gas, or nuclear energy, is used to heat the water until it becomes high-pressure steam. This high-pressure steam is then directed towards a turbine. The kinetic energy of the steam causes the turbine blades to rotate, which in turn spins a generator. The generator then converts this mechanical energy into electrical energy, producing electricity.

After passing through the turbine, the steam is then condensed back into water in a condenser. This water is then returned to the boiler, and the cycle begins again. This is a closed-loop system, meaning the water is continually reused.

The efficiency of a thermal power plant is determined by the temperature difference between the heat source and the cooling source. The greater the temperature difference, the more efficient the power plant. However, there are practical limits to this, as materials used in the power plant can only withstand certain temperatures.

The Rankine cycle is not 100% efficient. Some energy is always lost in the process, primarily as waste heat. This waste heat is usually released into the environment, often as hot water or steam. This is one of the reasons why thermal power plants are often located near bodies of water, as the water can be used as a cooling source.

In summary, thermal power plants convert heat to electricity by heating water to create steam, which then drives a turbine connected to a generator. The steam is then condensed back into water and returned to the boiler, creating a closed-loop system.