2006-10-24 02:05:59 · 3 answers · asked by sammnpm 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Primary & Secondary Education
The planks or "sleepers" as they are known are used to provide a firm foundation for the metal rails and to spread the weight evenly. If the tracks were put straight onto the ground with no sleepers beneath them, the weight of trains would sink them into the ground almost straight away.
Alternatively, wooden plans are placed in the same direction as the rails to form a flat surface for people, animals or vehicles to use to cross the tracks.
2006-10-24 02:12:10 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you're asking about railroad ties. They are used to hold down the track. There are large nails that are hammered into the railroad tie that hold the track in place.
2006-10-24 09:09:57 · answer #2 · answered by i have no idea 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they are probably cheaper than some plastic alternative.
2006-10-24 09:14:15 · answer #3 · answered by Kris 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋