250+ TOP MCQs on Ballast – Functions and sizes and Answers

This set of Railway Engineering Multiple Choice Questions on “Ballast – Functions and sizes”.

1. Which of the following is not a function of Ballast?
a) Providing a bed for sleepers
b) Holding sleepers in position
c) Providing effective drainage
d) Providing resistance to wheels
Answer: d
Clarification: The ballast provides resistance to the track and not wheels for proper stability. It should provide effective drainage, proper bed for sleepers and hols the sleepers in position.

2. Which element transfers its load directly to the Ballast?
a) Sleepers
b) Wheels
c) Locomotive
d) Formation
Answer: a
Clarification: The sleepers transfer the load imposed on it directly to the ballast. The Ballast which in turn transfers it to the formation and thus works efficiently.

3. The ballast provides stiffness to the track.
a) True
b) False
Answer: b
Clarification: The ballast provides elasticity to the track. This maintains comfortable conditions for the passengers during movement of the train especially while moving on curves.

4. Previously which of the following ballast was used for flat bottom sleepers?
a) 50mm
b) 36mm
c) 25mm
d) 74mm
Answer: a
Clarification: Earlier 50mm (2”) ballast was used for concrete and wooden sleepers. 40mm (1.5”) ballast was used for metal sleepers. Now to ensure uniformity 50mm ballast are used on all types of sleepers.

5. Which of the following ballast is used at points and crossings?
a) 50mm
b) 40mm
c) 25mm
d) 72mm
Answer: c
Clarification: At points and crossings small sized ballast is used because of its fineness for slight adjustments. Thus 25mm (1”) ballast is used.