Traction power is fed to a train’s systems via which path?

• A. Traction power is fed via stanchions to the trains pantograph via the contact wire (via the catenary wire)
• B. Traction power is delivered through the rails directly
• C. Traction power is supplied by battery backups at the station
• D. Traction power is transmitted via fiber optic cables

Answer: (A)

Traction power travels from the overhead contact system down into the train. The supply line, held up by stanchions, provides the electrical energy, and the pantograph on top of the train makes contact with this wire to feed the train’s traction motors and systems. The current completes its circuit by returning through the rails back to the substation. The other options don’t fit because power for propulsion comes from the overhead line, not directly from the rails, battery backups at stations don’t supply the running train, and fiber optic cables carry signals rather than electrical power.