Subscribe by EmailWhat keeps a train on the tracks while it’s turning?
August 28, 2009 by Geeks are Sexy | 3 comments
Most people think that trains stay on the tracks while it’s turning because of the flanges on its wheels. Unfortunately, that’s wrong. Think about this as well – while there’s an axle connecting each of its adjacent wheels, there’s no differential in the middle of it. How does it turn without derailing? In the following video, deceased American physicist Richard Feynman explains the science behind trains.
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sadly, i had to watch this (and pay attention) for one of my classes :(
Without watching the video, It’s the bevel of the wheels. The flange of the wheels do keep the them on track.
wow, I’ve never actually taken the time to think about how that would work. Good post!