How does temperature affect rail operations?

Temperature plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of railway systems, specifically affecting the physical characteristics of the rails themselves. As temperatures change, metals such as steel—a common material used for rail construction—will expand when heated and contract when cooled. This expansion and contraction can lead to significant challenges, including warping or misalignment of the tracks.

When rails expand in hot weather, they can push against each other, creating stress and the potential for buckling. On the other hand, during cold weather, the contraction can create gaps and reduce the rail's structural integrity. These effects necessitate careful monitoring and maintenance of rail conditions to ensure safety and effectiveness in operations. Therefore, the response accurately captures the critical importance of temperature's effect on track behavior, which is fundamental knowledge for any rail mechanic service worker.