Thermal turbines are machines that convert heat energy into mechanical energy, typically using steam or gas. They operate by heating water to create steam, which then expands and spins blades connected to a generator, producing electricity. This process is commonly used in power plants, where fossil fuels or nuclear energy provide the necessary heat. These turbines are essential in various applications, including coal-fired power plants, natural gas plants, and nuclear power stations. Their efficiency and design can vary, but they all rely on the same basic principle of transforming thermal energy into usable power.