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Difficulty: MediumThe Industrial Revolution

During the late 18th century, Britain began a transition from an agricultural society to one dominated by industry and machine manufacturing. This period, known as the Industrial Revolution, was made possible by several key inventions. Which individual is primarily remembered for developing a significantly more efficient steam engine, which provided the power needed for this industrial growth?

  1. A
    Richard Arkwright
  2. B
    George Stephenson
  3. James WattAnswer
  4. D
    Isambard Kingdom Brunel

Answer

James Watt is the individual primarily remembered for developing the efficient steam engine.
James Watt developed a significantly more efficient steam engine in the late 18th century. By adding a separate condenser, he reduced energy waste, making the engine powerful and reliable enough to drive machinery in factories and mines, which was a fundamental requirement for the Industrial Revolution.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core technological advancement mentioned in the context of the Industrial Revolution.
The question specifies the development of an 'efficient steam engine' used to power factories.
This establishes the specific invention needed to identify the correct historical figure.
2
Distinguish between major inventors associated with the period.
James Watt is the correct choice, as Arkwright focused on textiles and Stephenson on railways.
Differentiating between these figures prevents confusion among various technological breakthroughs of the era.

Key Concept

Key Technological Advancements of the Industrial Revolution
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Topics

The Industrial Revolution

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