Here's a breakdown of Watt's contributions:
* Separate Condenser: Watt's most famous innovation was the separate condenser. This allowed the steam cylinder to stay hot while the condenser remained cool, leading to a much more efficient use of steam and a significant increase in power output.
* Rotary Motion: Watt also developed a system that converted the steam engine's linear motion into rotary motion, making it more versatile and useful for powering machinery.
* Governor: Watt invented the centrifugal governor, which automatically regulated the speed of the steam engine. This ensured smoother operation and prevented damage from overspeeding.
Other important figures in the development of the steam engine include:
* Thomas Newcomen: Developed the first practical atmospheric steam engine, used for pumping water out of coal mines.
* Richard Trevithick: Built the first steam locomotive and the first steam road vehicle.
* George Stephenson: Improved locomotive design and built the first successful railway system.
Overall, James Watt's improvements to the steam engine had a revolutionary impact on industry and transportation, paving the way for the Industrial Revolution.
