Railway “triangle” (wye) arrangement: A railway triangle used for turning locomotives typically consists of which combination?
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AThree turnouts
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BOne turnout and two diamonds
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CTwo turnouts and one split
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DOne turnout, one split, and one diamond
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ENone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: Three turnouts
Explanation
Introduction / Context:A railway triangle (also called a wye) allows turning of rolling stock and provides route flexibility without a turntable. Recognizing its components is basic track-layout knowledge.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Standard Indian Railways track components: turnouts (points and crossings) and diamond crossings.
- Triangle provides three connections forming a closed loop of switches.
Concept / Approach:A triangle is formed by three legs meeting at three nodes. Each node requires a turnout to diverge from one leg to the next. Thus, three turnouts create the triangular route.
Step-by-Step Solution:Visualize three legs meeting pairwise with switch control.At each vertex, a turnout is needed → total three.Therefore, choose “Three turnouts.”
Verification / Alternative check:Track-planning diagrams for wyes show three switches (turnouts) forming the loop.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Options with diamonds are for crossing tracks, not essential for a basic wye.
- Mentions of “split” are nonstandard in this context.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing diamond crossings (track intersections) with turnouts (switching between routes).
Final Answer:Three turnouts