What is superheated steam?

Superheated steam is defined as steam that has been heated beyond its saturation point, meaning it is at a temperature higher than the boiling point for a given pressure. This process involves adding sensible heat, which increases the temperature of the steam without increasing its pressure. Superheated steam has several important applications in various industrial processes.

For example, in power generation, superheated steam is used to drive turbines more efficiently than saturated steam, as it can transfer more energy due to its higher thermal energy content. This characteristic also prevents the condensation that can occur with saturated steam, which can lead to damage in the turbines.

The other selections do not accurately capture the essence of superheated steam. While steam at the boiling point refers to saturated steam, steam that has been cooled would not retain its superheated characteristics. Lastly, while steam can exist in a gaseous state generally, it is the temperature condition—specifically being above the saturation point—that defines superheated steam in this context.