But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids Why do trains run on tracks?
Feb 7, 2025
In this engaging exploration, Patrick Kidd, the Communications lead and in-house historian at Amtrak, shares fascinating insights into the world of trains. Listeners learn how trains operate and the evolution from steam engines to modern electric and bullet trains. Kidd explains why trains run on tracks and their impressive speed despite heavy weight. The discussion highlights Amtrak’s features and advantages of train travel over cars, wrapped up with a peek into the future of high-speed rail in the U.S.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bus vs. Train
- Patrick Kidd's mother takes a bus to New York City, even though he works for Amtrak.
- The bus is more convenient because it departs closer to her home.
How Trains Work
- Trains use two types of locomotives: diesel and electric.
- Electric locomotives draw power from overhead lines called catenary using a pantograph.
Steam Train Mechanics
- Steam trains were common until the 1940s-1950s before diesel and electric became prevalent.
- Steam engines use fire to heat water and generate steam, which drives the train's machinery.