What is the purpose of a boiler in a power plant?

The primary purpose of a boiler in a power plant is to produce steam for power generation and heating purposes. In the context of power plants, boilers burn fuel, such as coal, natural gas, or oil, to heat water and convert it into steam. This high-pressure steam is then used to drive turbines, which generate electricity. Additionally, steam can be utilized for various heating processes in the plant or for district heating systems.

While generating electricity is a goal of the overall power plant system, it is the production of steam that facilitates this process. The role of a boiler is specifically tied to the conversion of water into steam under pressure, which is crucial for efficient energy transfer in turbine systems. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the essential function of boilers in supporting the thermodynamic cycles that lead to electricity generation and other heating applications.