Final answer:
Sailing vessels became obsolete due to the speed, reliability, and economic benefits of steam-powered ships, which were not dependent on wind and could transport goods more efficiently.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sailing vessels became obsolete for several reasons, all of which contributed to the rise of steam-powered ships. Firstly, steamships were capable of travelling twice as fast as the fastest sailing ships, enhancing commerce and trade by allowing goods to be transported more swiftly. Secondly, the reliability of steamships was higher as they were not dependent on the wind, meaning they could keep to regular schedules. Finally, the economic viability of steamships meant that goods could be shipped more cheaply over long distances, transforming industries like agriculture and forestry by enabling them to reach broader markets. Sailing vessels, therefore, became less practical and more costly due to these advancements in steamship technology.