Question

railroad tracks must make only gradual curves to present trains from derailing at high speeds. Why is a train likely to derail if it encounters a sharp turn while it's travelling fast?

Answer 1

Trains can derail on sharp turns at high speeds due to inadequate centripetal force to keep them on the track, requiring tracks to have gradual curves for safe navigation.

Step-by-step explanation:

A train is likely to derail if it encounters a sharp turn while traveling at high speeds due to inadequate centripetal force to keep it on the track. Trains rely on this force to make smooth turns, and a gradual decrease in the radius of curvature is preferable, as utilized in teardrop-shaped loops for roller coasters. Banks on curves, like those seen in race tracks, use an inclined angle to assist with the curve, allowing for higher speeds without the aid of friction. If a train were to enter a sharp curve at high speed, the outside rails would need to exert a huge force to provide the necessary centripetal force to prevent derailment, which might not be physically sustainable.