There are two major types of modern locomotives. Electric, and Diesel-Electric.
Electric locomotives are very popular in some countries, and likewise for diesel-electric. Electric locomotives take in electricity via an overhead wire or a third rail that carries this electricity which is then in turn used to power electrical motors on the axles of the locomotive to move the train.
Diesel-electric is identical, but electricity is not directly supplied. The locomotive is fueled with diesel which powers a large diesel engine that drives a generator that in turn drives electric motors on the axles of the locomotive. Think of it as a hybrid. An on-board generator that powers on-board electric motors.
trains were powered on steam and now most trains work by electricity
they are not powered dar - ID2573951383 Contrary to what ID2573951383 thinks, trains are powered, dar, or they wouldn't be able to move. Most modern day trains are powered by a single car called a locomotive that pulls the rest of the train. Locomotives are typically powered by diesel although electric locomotives are also becoming popular. In the past locomotives were powered by steam. - P.C.
The main fuel IS diesel fuel for both both trains and ships, most freight trains run on electric motors that are powered in most cases by diesel engined generators, while passenger trains are powered by diesel, or directly from an overhead power line, or electrified rail. Trains of course used to be powered by steam, fired by wood or coal. old sailing ships obviously used to be powered by wind and/or manpower. Later they were powered by steam, usually coal fired, and then by diesel fuel.
Modern trains are powered by diesel or electricity. There are still some coal powered steam trains in service, mainly on tourist lines.
Most often electricity, but there are diesel and steam trains powered by coal.
Steam
with steam.
Any electrical source.
Electric traction motors in each car via a "3rd rail" feeding electricity.
No, trains typically do not use petrol (gasoline). Most trains are powered by electricity or diesel fuel. Electric trains draw power from overhead lines or an electrified rail, while diesel trains use diesel engines. Some older or specialized trains may use other fuels, but petrol is not a common fuel source for trains.
Boat, trains, and horses powered carriage
New trains are not built to be coal powered. However there are still some steam trains run and maintained by amateur enthusiasts.