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The word "train" is superfluous there.
Not sure what you mean by "better", but from a purely engineering perspective the diesel is much more efficient, i.e. it uses a lot less fuel to generate a given power output. Although the steam locomotive has very different torque characteristics it is not as powerful as an equivalent-service diesel locomotive.
The diesel can also be turned off at the end of the run. A steam locomotive burns coal or oil all the time it is ready for service, and needs two "fuels": the fuel itself and prodigious amounts of clean water.
Operationally, the steam locomotive is labour-intensive and however much we may romanticise the machine, much of that labour is heavy, grubby and unpleasant. It takes two skilled men to operate it, plus a team of shed-men on preparation, disposal, cleaning & maintenance. The diesel loco needs only one man (or woman) in the cab - a nice, comfy, clean cab at that - and far fewer "support staff".
Both types are polluting, though that from a well-maintained steam locomotive in the hands of a good fireman and driver, and running properly on good-quality coal, is fairly low. It can present a fire hazard in some situations though. The bigger problem is when a steam locomotive is fired up from cold, since the natural draught in its chimney is too low to allow proper combustion so it emits a lot of mucky, sulphurous smoke.
Where the steam locomotive does score over the diesel or electric is its comparative simplicity that means if it breaks down in service, it may be possible to nurse it to the nearest suitable station whereas the diesel loco is stuck.
There is also a political point that the steam locomotive's fuel comes from potentially problematical sources whereas coal is more widely available.
What else can I help you with?
How train driven?
Steam power; Diesel engines, Electricity, and a very few gasoline engines.
What does a steam locomotive do?
a steam locomotive is a way to be transportated or a way for transportation. it pulls the train of cars just like the modern diesel engines
What does steam locomotive do?
a steam locomotive is a way to be transportated or a way for transportation. it pulls the train of cars just like the modern diesel engines
When did trains switch to using diesel?
The conversion by the railroads from steam to diesel was relatively slow, in part by attrition. By 1952, 50% of the locomotive power in the US had converted over to diesel. The remaining steam engines were phased out for regular train use by about 1968. From the 1970's, steam engines have had limited use for excursion trains, park use, etc.
What do diesel trains run on?
Diesel trains are powered by diesel engines that are connected to generators that then drive electrical motors which are connected to the driving wheels. Some steam engines were also outfitted to run on diesel. in that case the diesel heated water which went into a reciprocating (moves back and forth)cylinder which then drove the wheels that drove the train.
What goes in a train engine?
The steam engines required water, with coal or wood from the tender providing the fire to heat the boiler. The diesel engines require diesel fuel to operate, plus their lubricationa and cooling systems. The electric trains don't have engines, but use motors, operated by electricity.
What are the different kinds of train locomotives from the first steam engine to todays latest train?
Steam, diesel, and electric.
How many cylinders in train?
It depends on the type of train. A steam powered train only needs on cylinder. Modern trains are actually run by electric motors! The motors are powered by powerful diesel engines that generate electricity as the motors need it.
What is a steam engine on a train?
A steam engine on a train is a type of locomotive that generates power through the combustion of fuel, typically coal or wood, to heat water in a boiler, producing steam. This steam is then directed to pistons or turbines, which drive the engine's wheels, propelling the train forward. Steam engines played a crucial role in the development of rail transport during the 19th and early 20th centuries before being largely replaced by diesel and electric engines. They are often celebrated today for their historical significance and engineering marvel.
Does smoke come from an engine in a train?
Yes, if the the engine is a steam engine or a diesel engine. The diesel engine smoke should be almost invisible when the engine is in good condition. Electric locomotives are not typically called "engines", but these do not produce smoke.
What runs train engines?
Train engines today are usually powered by diesel fuel, which is burned in conventional internal combustion diesel engines, which turn electric generators, which produce electricity that is used to drive electric motors that drive the wheels.
What provides power for a train?
Most often electricity, but there are diesel and steam trains powered by coal.
