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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.
20:59
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Quick takeaways
- Trains operate on tracks to ensure guidance and stability, which is crucial for their safe navigation and efficient transport of goods.
- The development of trains, particularly during the transcontinental railroad era, significantly enhanced connectivity and communication across the United States.
Deep dives
Understanding How Trains Operate
Trains primarily rely on locomotives to generate movement, which can either be diesel or electric. Diesel locomotives operate using diesel fuel, similar to a car, while electric locomotives draw power from overhead wires known as catenary lines. The various locomotive types contribute to the efficiency of train travel, with electric trains being more common in the Northeast. A significant portion of Amtrak's service utilizes electric locomotives, carrying around 87,000 passengers daily across approximately 300 trains.
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Discover
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