How did the steam engine influence the Industrial Revolution?

The steam engine played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution by providing a new power source for both transportation and factories, making it the correct choice. Before the advent of the steam engine, industries relied heavily on water power, animal power, and human labor. The introduction of the steam engine allowed factories to be established in locations away from waterways, significantly increasing productivity and efficiency.

By serving as a prime mover, the steam engine enabled the development of steam-powered trains and ships, transforming how goods and people were transported. This new mobility facilitated trade and the spread of industrialization across regions and nations, greatly contributing to economic growth and urbanization during the Industrial Revolution.

While the steam engine did result in a reduction of manual labor and indirectly improved agricultural production by powering machinery, its most significant impact was its role as a versatile power source that transformed both transportation and manufacturing processes.