The principle of steamships, simply put, is to use the power generated by steam to propel the ship forward. The heart of a steamship is its steam engine. First, in the ship's boiler, fuel (such as coal) is burned, which heats the water in the boiler and turns it into steam. This high-pressure steam is then directed into the cylinder of the steam engine, pushing the piston into reciprocating motion. The movement of the piston is converted into rotational movement through the connecting rod mechanism, which in turn drives the propeller on the ship to rotate. The propeller creates thrust in the water, propelling the ship forward.

The emergence of steamships greatly improved the speed and efficiency of water transportation, marking a major revolution in human water transportation. It is not only a means of transportation, but also a symbol of the industrial revolution, demonstrating the wisdom and power of mankind to use natural forces to promote social progress. Although the principle of steamship seems simple, the technology and wisdom behind it are enough to make us admire it.