What is the primary purpose of a steam boiler?

The primary purpose of a steam boiler is to generate steam for heating or power generation. Steam boilers are designed to convert water into steam through the process of heating. This steam can then be used in various applications, including powering turbines for electricity generation, heating spaces in buildings, or providing energy for industrial processes.

Understanding the role of a steam boiler in these applications is crucial for anyone working with steam systems. The generation of steam is vital for numerous industries, as steam's high energy content allows it to effectively transfer energy and heat.

The other options relate to different systems, such as cooling liquids or operating refrigeration systems, which are not associated with the primary function of a steam boiler. Providing hot water for domestic use is also a function typically associated with water heaters rather than steam boilers. Therefore, the focus on steam generation distinctly highlights the boiler's role in energy production and thermal management.