Showing 1–10 of 34 questions
in Technical Knowledge (NTPC)
In a modern electric locomotive, what is the primary function of a pantograph?
A
To collect electric current from the overhead catenary wire
B
To store electrical energy in batteries
C
To regulate air pressure in brakes
D
To control the speed of the locomotive
Correct Answer:
A. To collect electric current from the overhead catenary wire
EXPLANATION
A pantograph is a mechanical device that maintains contact with the overhead electrical wire to supply power to electric locomotives and trains.
Which of the following is the standard gauge used in Indian Railways?
A
1676 mm (Broad Gauge)
B
1000 mm (Meter Gauge)
C
762 mm (Narrow Gauge)
D
1435 mm (Standard Gauge)
Correct Answer:
A. 1676 mm (Broad Gauge)
EXPLANATION
Indian Railways primarily use 1676 mm broad gauge, which is the widest gauge in the world and allows for higher speeds and greater stability.
In a diesel-electric locomotive, what is the primary function of the 'traction motor'?
A
To generate electricity from the diesel engine
B
To convert electrical energy into mechanical motion for driving wheels
C
To compress air for brake systems
D
To regulate fuel supply to the engine
Correct Answer:
B. To convert electrical energy into mechanical motion for driving wheels
EXPLANATION
The traction motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the locomotive wheels through the transmission system.
In railway signaling systems, what does a 'yellow signal' indicate?
A
Stop immediately
B
Proceed with caution, prepare to stop at the next signal
C
Clear to proceed at full speed
D
Speed restriction zone
Correct Answer:
B. Proceed with caution, prepare to stop at the next signal
EXPLANATION
A yellow signal indicates 'caution' - the driver should prepare to stop at the next signal as it may show 'stop' indication.
What is the role of 'ballast' in railway track construction?
A
To provide electrical conductivity
B
To support the sleepers and distribute load evenly
C
To prevent rust formation on rails
D
To measure train speed
Correct Answer:
B. To support the sleepers and distribute load evenly
EXPLANATION
Ballast, typically made of crushed stone or gravel, supports the sleepers and distributes the train's weight evenly to the subgrade.
Which component in a diesel locomotive is responsible for converting chemical energy into mechanical energy?
A
Alternator
B
Transmission system
C
Diesel engine
D
Traction motor
Correct Answer:
C. Diesel engine
EXPLANATION
The diesel engine is the primary component that converts the chemical energy stored in diesel fuel into mechanical energy through combustion.
In railway terminology, what does 'rake' refer to?
A
A tool used for track maintenance
B
A complete set of coaches or wagons coupled together
C
The slope of the railway track
D
The angle between rails
Correct Answer:
B. A complete set of coaches or wagons coupled together
EXPLANATION
A 'rake' is a complete formation of railway coaches or wagons that are coupled together to form a train unit.
Which of the following is the primary function of a buffer in railway couplings?
A
To increase train speed
B
To absorb shocks and reduce impact between coaches
C
To facilitate uncoupling of trains
D
To improve brake efficiency
Correct Answer:
B. To absorb shocks and reduce impact between coaches
EXPLANATION
Buffers are spring-loaded devices that absorb shocks and minimize damage during coupling and uncoupling of railway carriages.
What is the gauge of the Indian railway network that covers the majority of the system?
A
Broad gauge (1676 mm)
B
Meter gauge (1000 mm)
C
Narrow gauge (762 mm)
D
Standard gauge (1435 mm)
Correct Answer:
A. Broad gauge (1676 mm)
EXPLANATION
Indian railways predominantly use broad gauge (1676 mm) which covers approximately 43,000 km of the total network.
In railway signaling, what does a red signal indicate?
A
Proceed with caution
B
Stop - do not proceed
C
Reduce speed
D
Wait for further instructions
Correct Answer:
B. Stop - do not proceed
EXPLANATION
A red signal in railway signaling is a mandatory stop signal indicating that trains must not proceed beyond that point.
