Gauges & Tracks — Set 4
Indian Railways · गेज और ट्रैक · Questions 31–40 of 50
How is the width of a railway gauge measured?
Correct Answer: C. Inner faces of the rails
The gauge is measured as the minimum distance between the inner running faces of the two rails. This ensures that the wheelsets of the train fit perfectly on the track. This measurement must be precise to avoid excessive friction or derailment.
Which gauge is the most widely used in the world, covering about 60% of the global network?
Correct Answer: C. Standard Gauge
Standard Gauge (1435 mm) is the international standard used in the US, China, and most of Europe. In India, it is primarily restricted to urban Metro systems and the upcoming High-Speed Rail. It originated from the early coal mine railways in Britain.
What is the main advantage of using Broad Gauge over Narrow Gauge?
Correct Answer: B. Higher stability and speed
Broad Gauge provides a wider base, which increases the center of gravity and stability of the train. This allows for wider coaches, more cargo capacity, and much higher speeds. Narrow gauges are cheaper to build but are limited in performance.
The process of joining rails through intense heat to form a continuous track is called?
Correct Answer: C. Thermit Welding
Thermit welding uses a chemical reaction to melt steel and fuse the rail ends together. This creates 'Continuous Welded Rails' (CWR) which eliminate the clicking sound of joints. CWR reduces the maintenance needs of the track significantly.
Which state's hill railway is known as the Matheran Light Railway?
Correct Answer: B. Maharashtra
The Matheran Hill Railway is located in Maharashtra and uses the 610 mm narrow gauge. It is a popular heritage train that connects Neral to the car-free hill station of Matheran. The track follows a zig-zag path to climb the Western Ghats.
Broad Gauge is also known by which name in Indian Railway official documents?
Correct Answer: A. BG
BG is the standard abbreviation for Broad Gauge in all technical and operational records. Similarly, MG stands for Meter Gauge and NG for Narrow Gauge. These codes are often painted on locomotives and wagons.
What happens if a railway track has 'Negative Super-elevation'?
Correct Answer: B. Inner rail is higher than outer
Negative super-elevation occurs when the inner rail of a curve is higher than the outer rail. This is usually avoided as it can cause the train to overturn at high speeds. It may only occur at complicated turnouts where one curve leads into another.
The 'Gauge' used in the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is?
Correct Answer: B. Meter Gauge
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) in Tamil Nadu is a Meter Gauge (1000 mm) line. It is unique for its 'Rack and Pinion' system to climb steep gradients. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of 19th-century engineering.
What is the function of 'Check Rails' provided on sharp curves?
Correct Answer: B. Preventing wheel flange from climbing
Check rails are laid parallel to the inner rail on sharp curves to guide the wheel flanges. they prevent the outer wheels from jumping off the rail due to high lateral force. This is a critical safety feature for trains navigating tight bends.
The sleepers used in Indian Railways help in?
Correct Answer: A. Maintaining track gauge
The correct answer is 'Maintaining track gauge'. Sleepers act as spacers that keep the two rails at a fixed distance from each other. They also absorb the vibrations from the passing train and distribute the load. The spacing and material of sleepers are carefully engineered for safety.