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Question

Difficulty: MediumThe Industrial Revolution

Throughout the period of rapid industrialisation in Britain, the transition from water power to more flexible energy sources was crucial for economic growth. Which of the following technologies did James Watt significantly improve, enabling factories to operate effectively in urban areas rather than relying on locations near rivers?

  1. The steam engineAnswer
  2. B
    The spinning jenny
  3. C
    The water frame
  4. D
    The power loom

Answer

The technology significantly improved by James Watt was the steam engine.
The correct answer is the steam engine. James Watt's improvements in the late 18th century made the steam engine practical and efficient for driving factory machinery. This allowed industry to move from rural river valleys into towns and cities, leading to massive urban growth and the modern industrial economy.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the key inventor mentioned in the question.
The inventor is James Watt.
The question specifically asks about Watt's contribution to the Industrial Revolution.
2
Analyze the constraint mentioned: moving away from reliance on rivers.
The technology must be a power source that replaces water wheels.
Early industrial mills were located on rivers because they relied on water power; steam engines allowed for urban industrialisation.
3
Distinguish between the power source and the machinery used in textiles.
The steam engine provided the power, while the spinning jenny and water frame were the machines being powered.
James Watt's steam engine was the 'prime mover' that enabled the factory system to expand into cities.

Key Concept

The transition from water power to steam power as the driver of urban industrialisation.

Practice More

Review the social impact of the Industrial Revolution, particularly the shift from rural to urban living.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

The Industrial Revolution

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