What is Charles Parsons primarily known for?

Charles Parsons is primarily known for his groundbreaking work in the development of steam turbines. He invented the Parsons turbine, which significantly improved the efficiency and practicality of steam power generation. By utilizing steam to drive turbines rather than traditional reciprocating engines, his design allowed for higher speeds and a more compact engine, which revolutionized marine and power generation industries.

The significance of his contributions lies in the way the steam turbine made it possible to harness steam power with greater efficiency, leading to advancements in various applications, from electricity generation to propulsion in ships. His work laid the foundation for future developments in turbine technology and remains influential in engineering practices today.