Why Railway Tracks Are Made of Steel

Trains are very heavy, and their wheels press down on two narrow metal strips called rails.

These rails have to carry hundreds or even thousands of tonnes without breaking.

They also have to handle the constant bumping and stress of trains passing over them again and again.

Steel is used because it is very strong and lasts a long time.

It can hold huge loads without wearing away quickly.

Steel can also be shaped very precisely so the top of the rail is smooth for the wheels.

Modern railways often weld long steel rails together to make the ride smoother.

Engineers also manage the tension in the rails and use sleepers and ballast to hold them in place.

Sometimes rails are painted white so they absorb less heat from the sun.