What is the liquid called that is returned to the liquid state by cooling in a condenser after steam has done its work?

The liquid that is returned to the liquid state by cooling in a condenser after steam has done its work is referred to as condensate. In a steam system, steam is generated and used to perform work, such as turning a turbine or heating a space. Once the steam has completed its task, it enters the condenser, where it is cooled down. This cooling causes the steam to lose energy and transform back into a liquid state.

Condensate is important in steam systems because it can be reused as feedwater for the boiler, improving the efficiency of the overall system. This process helps to conserve water and energy, making it a vital component in maintaining sustainable operations in many industrial applications.

Feedwater, while closely related, specifically refers to water that is added to the boiler to replace water lost through evaporation and other processes. Effluent typically refers to waste liquid, and vapor describes the gaseous phase of a substance, which does not accurately characterize the liquid state of water after condensation.