turbine

/ˈtʌrbaɪn/

/ˈtʌbaɪn/

Other forms: turbines

A turbine is a device used to generate energy as a flowing liquid causes a bladed rotor to move around. A water wheel is a turbine.

There are many ways we get energy, such as fossil fuels and solar power. Another is a gadget called a turbine. A turbine uses the power of water (or another liquid) to move a wheel, generating energy. A windmill is also an example of a turbine, though it uses wind instead of liquid. Other turbines use gas or steam to generate energy. Ever since the 1800s, engineers have used many sorts of turbines to help satisfy our ever-increasing energy needs.

Definitions of turbine

1. noun

   rotary engine in which the kinetic energy of a moving fluid is converted into mechanical energy by causing a bladed rotor to rotate
   types:

   gas turbine

   turbine that converts the chemical energy of a liquid fuel into mechanical energy by internal combustion; gaseous products of the fuel (which is burned in compressed air) are expanded through a turbine

   hydroelectric turbine

   turbine consisting of a large and efficient version of a water wheel used to drive an electric generator

   impulse turbine

   a turbine that is driven by jets direct against the blades

   reaction turbine

   a turbine with blades arranged to develop torque from gradual decrease of steam pressure from inlet to exhaust

   steam turbine

   turbine in which steam strikes blades and makes them turn

   wind turbine

   a turbine that is driven by the wind

   Francis turbine

   a type of hydroelectric turbine

   type of:

   rotary engine

   an internal-combustion engine in which power is transmitted directly to rotating components