In which year did Thomas Edison develop the first thermal power station in the United States?

• A. 1870
• B. 1882
• C. 1890
• D. 1900

Answer: (B)

This question tests when centralized electric power generation began in the United States, as pioneered by Thomas Edison. The first practical central power station was the Pearl Street Station in New York City, which began generating electricity in 1882 for nearby customers using coal-fired steam dynamos to supply direct current. This milestone marks the shift from small, isolated generators to a centralized plant with a distribution system, laying the groundwork for modern electric utilities. Dates like 1870 are too early for a centralized power system, while 1890 and 1900 come after Edison’s first central station and reflect later developments in the industry.