WMATA Rail Systems 5

Question 1

A track circuit detects the presence of a train by:

Accepted Answer

Sensing the electrical shunt created by the train's axles

Answer

A train's axles short the track circuit, signaling that the block is occupied.

Question 2

What is the main reason rail systems divide track into 'blocks'?

Accepted Answer

To control train spacing and prevent collisions

Answer

Blocks allow signaling to keep only one train per section, preventing collisions.

Question 3

If an operator observes a person on the track ahead, the first priority is to:

Accepted Answer

Apply emergency braking and sound the horn

Answer

Emergency braking and warning the person are the immediate priorities to avoid injury.

Question 4

Ballast under the rail ties primarily provides:

Accepted Answer

Drainage and load distribution to stabilize the track

Answer

Ballast drains water and spreads track loads to keep the rail stable.

Question 5

An 'absolute block' system guarantees that a section of track:

Accepted Answer

Is occupied by no more than one train

Answer

Absolute block working permits only one train in a block section at a time.

WMATA Test Practice Test