Question

The disadvantage of maglev trains is that?
A) More friction
B) Less friction
C) Less wear and tear
D) High initial cost

Answer 1

Hint: Maglev trains are modern technology based on magnetic levitation in which the train can move very fast by the use of a powerful electromagnetic field.
These trains float on the track by electromagnetic suspension which makes it very fast and modern.

Complete step by step answer:
These trains float on a track and do not run on steel rail tracks.
There are two sets of magnets, one set to repel and push the train and balance it on track another set to move the train.
The magnetized coils are arranged in the track. When the current passes in the coils of the track a typical magnetic field is set up between the undercarriage of the train and the track which pushes and pulls the train along the track as shown in the diagram.

There are several disadvantages to maglev trains:
- Maglev guide paths are more costly than conventional steel railway tracks. Because the magnetic coils and material used in this setup are very costly.
- Maglev trains require an all-new set up right from the scratch. It is hard to be done as well as costly.
- As present railway infrastructure is of no use for maglev, it will either have to be replaced with the maglev system or an entirely new set up will have to be created; both of them will need a huge amount of cost for initial investments.
- Although maglev is pretty quiet, noise caused by air disturbance still occurs.
- Maglev trains are feasible only in urban areas.

$\therefore$ We finally conclude that these trains are very costly so here the option (D) is correct.

Note:
These trains are costly but they also have more advantages.
- We see these trains have no physics contact to the track so there is very little friction and it gains very high speed easily.
- Maglev can handle a high volume of passengers per hour and do it without air pollution.
- Maglev and its track would require very little maintenance since the train never touches the track.
- Maglev trains use far less energy than other types of transportation.
- Maglev trains do not use fossil fuels because these trains do not have any type of engine. These trains make use of only magnetic field force to move.