Why don't trains make *that* sound anymore?

Veritasium
Contributed By
Veritasium
Resource Type
Instructional Resource
Keywords
veritasium science physics rail railway tracks traintracks metal rock Robert Bunsen metallurgy Hans Goldschmidt chemistry thermite welding engineering Railroad train tracks thermal expansion steel train trains railroad buckling
Subjects
Science
Related Resources

Why don't trains make *that* sound anymore?

If you've been on a modern train you won't have noticed that classic "clickety-clack" sound anymore. This is because train tracks are now one continuous piece of rail without gaps.

But one long piece of metal without room to expand when hot is dangerous.

Thus, engineers had to come up with an ingenious solution involving... jagged rocks?
Publisher
Veritasium

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