Question

76. Consider the following statements with reference to maglev trains:
1They are less expensive to operate and maintain.
2. They produce no air pollution during operation.
3. Maglev trains are already in use in country like China, Japan and Koria.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?

• A. Only 1 and 2
• B. Only 2 and 3
• C. Only 3
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

Maglev, which is derived from the term 'magnetic levitation', a transport method that employs magnetic levitation to move the vehicle without touching the ground. With maglev technology, a vehicle travels along a 'guideway' using magnets to create both lift and propulsion. It can run at a top speed of 500 km an hour. They are less expensive to operate and maintain, because the absence of rolling friction means that parts do not wear out quickly. Maglev trains produce no air pollution during operation, because no fuel is being burned. As there is no friction, the train produce almost no sound making the ride smoother for the passengers. Maglev systems can operate on higher ascending grades compared to traditional railroads, reducing the need of land modification in order to accommodate the tracks. Magnets made from ferrite (an iron compound) or alnico (alloys of iron, aluminium, nickel, cobalt, and copper) produce a stronger magnetic field than ordinary magnets which helps lift and channelize the train cars over the directed 'guide way'. Maglev trains are in operation in China, Japan, Germany and South Korea.