🔍 Key Concepts

• Role of vacuum in a main condenser and why it’s important for turbine efficiency • Effects of non‑condensable gases (like air) on heat transfer and pressure inside a condenser • Relationship between condenser pressure, steam temperature, and turbine exhaust

💭 Think About

• What happens to the condenser pressure (vacuum) if non‑condensable gases like air start to collect inside the shell? • How does a layer of air between the cooling water tubes and the steam affect the rate of condensation and the overall condenser performance? • Which choice directly reflects the usual problem engineers try to avoid by using air ejectors or vacuum pumps on condensers?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option deals specifically with condenser pressure/vacuum, not turbine metal distortion or too-rapid heat transfer. • Think about why ships use air ejectors on surface condensers – what problem are they designed to prevent? • Ask yourself: if air is taking up space in the condenser, does that make it easier or harder to maintain a strong vacuum and condense exhaust steam?