Freight Train vs Passenger Transport Quiz

Why do freight trains often get priority over passenger trains?

• Freight trains are faster.

• Freight trains carry passengers.

• Freight trains are more profitable.

• Freight trains block more infrastructure if stopped.

Answer explanation

Freight trains block more infrastructure if stopped, which can disrupt the flow of rail traffic. This makes it essential to prioritize them over passenger trains to maintain overall efficiency in the rail system.

What is a key characteristic of freight train locomotives?

• They are often heavier and stronger than passenger train locomotives.

• They have less horsepower than passenger train locomotives.

• They are designed for high-speed travel.

• They are lighter than passenger train locomotives.

Answer explanation

Freight train locomotives are designed to pull heavy loads, making them heavier and stronger than passenger train locomotives, which prioritize speed and comfort.

Why might a freight train get stuck in a tunnel?

• Because of a passenger train blocking the exit.

• Due to a lack of fuel.

• Because of a broken track.

• Due to a lack of power to pull out after stopping.

Answer explanation

A freight train may get stuck in a tunnel due to a lack of power to pull out after stopping. This situation can prevent the train from moving forward, unlike issues like a broken track or a blocked exit.

What is a common feature of shunting locomotives?

• They are lighter than regular locomotives.

• They are designed for high-speed travel.

• They can be operated by remote control.

• They are used for long-distance travel.

Answer explanation

Shunting locomotives are often equipped with remote control capabilities, allowing for efficient operation in yards and terminals. This feature distinguishes them from regular locomotives, which are not typically designed for such control.

What determines the required traction for a freight train?

• The type of goods being transported.

• The number of passengers.

• The weight of the train and the maximum incline.

• The color of the train cars.

Answer explanation

The required traction for a freight train is primarily determined by the weight of the train and the maximum incline it must navigate. Heavier trains and steeper inclines require more traction to maintain movement.

What is the purpose of using multiple locomotives in a freight train?

• To increase speed.

• To save fuel.

• For better distribution of power.

• To reduce noise.

Answer explanation

Using multiple locomotives in a freight train allows for better distribution of power, enabling the train to pull heavier loads more efficiently and maintain stability on inclines.

What is a potential problem if a freight train has to wait for a passenger train?

• It might derail.

• It might run out of fuel.

• It could block multiple switches and crossings.

• It could lose its cargo.

Answer explanation

If a freight train has to wait for a passenger train, it could block multiple switches and crossings, causing delays and potential safety issues for other trains and road traffic.

Why might freight trains interfere with passenger transport?

• They are more frequent than passenger trains.

• They use the same railway network.

• They are quieter than passenger trains.

• They are faster than passenger trains.

Answer explanation

Freight trains interfere with passenger transport because they use the same railway network. This can lead to scheduling conflicts and delays, as both types of trains share the same tracks.

What is a reason for the long braking distance of freight trains?

• Their lightweight design.

• Their aerodynamic shape.

• Their high speed.

• Their heavy weight.

Answer explanation

Freight trains have a heavy weight, which contributes to their long braking distance. The greater mass requires more time and distance to come to a complete stop compared to lighter vehicles.

What is a challenge when a freight train stops on a track?

• It can easily start moving again.

• It blocks only a small section of the track.

• It requires significant power to start moving again.

• It can be easily rerouted.

Answer explanation

When a freight train stops, it requires significant power to start moving again due to its heavy weight and inertia. This makes it a challenge to resume movement, unlike lighter vehicles that can start more easily.