COMING DOWN THE TRACKS One of the fastest ways for many people to travel together over land is by train Trains travel along a path of two metal rails or tracks Each section of the train is linked together The wheels on the bottom have a slightly curved outer edge That is what makes them stay on the rails There are two types of trains passenger and freight Passenger trains Trains carry passengers and freight all over the world 4
carry people Freight trains carry products Railroads have been essential to the spread of people settling across many countries including the United States Today trains help people travel across almost every country in the world Railroads serve many thousands of communities from big cities to tiny villages in faraway areas Passenger trains allow people to sit back and enjoy the sights while traveling A bus is another way many people can travel together on land Why would one travel by train rather than bus Think About It 5
TRAINS ON THE RUN Railroads were designed to move large amounts of passengers or things over long distances They are the most efficient method of land transportation because they require the least amount of fuel and work by people A locomotive is the vehicle that pulls most trains It can be powered by an engine that burns diesel fuel or by A driver in a diesel locomotive operates the train with help from a crew of people Something that works well and does not waste time or resources is efficient 6
electricity The electricity comes from a third rail or an overhead wire The train operator called the driver or engineer usually sits in the locomotive Some modern trains have computers that help guide the train and control its speed The engineer uses the computers and other devices to run the train Those devices include a throttle reversing gear and brake The throttle controls the locomotive’s speed The reversing gear allows the train to back up The brake controls slowing and stopping The inside of a locomotive has computers and controls The engineer must be trained to ensure a safe ride for all 7
