The Train

A train is made of many cars linked together. It runs on two metal rails called tracks. An engine at the front pulls the other cars. Trains can carry people, food, cars, and many other things. They can travel long distances very fast.

From Steam to Speed

The first trains used steam engines. An English man named George Stephenson built a famous steam train called the Rocket in 1829. Steam trains burned coal to make steam. Later, trains ran on diesel fuel. Now, many trains run on electricity and can go very fast.

Trains Today

Some trains in Japan and France go over 200 miles per hour. These are called high-speed trains. In big cities, subway trains run underground. Freight trains carry goods across countries. Some kids love to watch trains and learn all about them.

Fun Facts

• The fastest train in the world uses magnets and can go over 370 miles per hour.
• A subway is a train that runs under the ground.
• The longest train ever had over 600 cars.

Did You Know?

Maglev trains float just above the tracks using magnets. This lets them move without rubbing on the rails.