What happens to saturated steam when heat is added?

When heat is added to saturated steam, it remains at the same temperature while the phase of the steam changes. This process is known as "superheating," where the saturated steam absorbs heat without an increase in pressure, provided the system is not constrained. As heat continues to be supplied, the saturated steam can increase in temperature above its saturation point.

The key aspect of the behavior of saturated steam is that as it receives additional heat, it does not condense into water; instead, it maintains its gaseous state but with increased thermal energy. This signifies that as heat is added, the steam's specific enthalpy increases and it enters a state where it can effectively do work, such as in turbines, or facilitate heat transfer processes.

The confusion may arise when considering condensation, which happens in the opposite context, where steam loses heat and converts back into liquid water. The focus on "adding heat" clearly indicates that the intention is to expand the steam's thermal capacity and raise its temperature, showcasing the importance of understanding the phases of matter and energy transfer in thermodynamic systems.