Final answer:
Chemical energy is converted to thermal energy in the combustion chamber of a boiler.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the operation of a boiler, chemical energy is converted to thermal energy in the combustion chamber. When fuel such as coal is burned in the combustion chamber, the chemical energy stored in the fuel is released in the form of heat. This heat then raises the temperature of the water surrounding the combustion chamber, converting the chemical energy to thermal energy.