Railway Engineering MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Coles method is the standard method to design a turnout taking off from a straight track.

Step-by-step solution

1. A turnout lets a train move from one track to another. 2. For a turnout taking off from a straight main track, Coles method is used to find the lead, the crossing angle and the radius of the turnout curve. 3. Coulomb's and Rankine's methods are earth pressure theories. Westergaard's method is used for rigid pavement stresses. 4. So the answer is (B) Coles method.

Explanation

Coles method is the standard method for designing a turnout from a straight railway track. It gives the lead length and the radius of the turnout curve. The other options belong to soil mechanics and pavement design.

Why the other options are wrong

A: Coulomb's method is for earth pressure on retaining walls. C: Westergaard's method is for stresses in rigid (concrete) pavements. D: Rankine's method is for earth pressure and for setting out curves (deflection angles), not for turnout design.

Shortcut

Turnout design from straight track = Coles method.

Common mistake

Choosing Rankine's method because it is also used in railway curve setting out.