What is the function of the fixed blades of a reaction turbine?

The function of the fixed blades in a reaction turbine is primarily to direct the steam flow to the moving blades. This is crucial because the fixed blades, also known as stationary blades, are designed to improve the efficiency of the turbine by guiding the working fluid (in this case, steam) onto the moving blades in a specific manner that maximizes the energy transfer.

By directing the steam flow effectively, the fixed blades ensure that the steam strikes the moving blades at the appropriate angle, which enhances the turbine's performance and power generation capabilities. This interaction between fixed and moving blades is essential for the functioning of a reaction turbine, where both stationary and moving blades contribute to the change in pressure and velocity of the steam as it passes through the turbine, resulting in rotational motion.

In contrast, while the other options may reflect aspects of steam flow and turbine operation, they do not accurately describe the primary role of the fixed blades in directing the flow to facilitate effective energy conversion in the turbine system.