PATH Exam Definitions Questions with
Complete Solutions9
Switch (Sw.) - ANSWERS-A track structure used to move a train from one track to another,
operated remotely as part of an interlocking system.
Third Rail - ANSWERS-The rail providing traction power for a train's operation, also known as a
power or contact rail.
Third Rail Cover-Board - ANSWERS-A non-conductive board that covers the third rail, attached to
brackets.
Third Rail Side Incline - ANSWERS-An electrified extension alongside the third rail, allowing the
contact shoe to ride up onto the third rail at switch locations.
Track Indicator - ANSWERS-An illuminated device used with an interlocking signal to indicate the
track to which the train will be routed.
Transponder - ANSWERS-A passive device mounted in the roadbed, interrogated by the train to
identify its current location.
Trailing Point Switch - ANSWERS-Refers to the direction in which a train or other railroad
equipment approaches a turnout. A trailing point switch is one where the train or railroad
equipment approaches from one of the two diverging routes.
Train - ANSWERS-One or more rail cars coupled together, displaying proper front and rear lights,
crewed, and with a designated destination.
, Train Stop - ANSWERS-The roadway element that, when engaged, automatically results in an
emergency brake application.
Turnout - ANSWERS-An arrangement of a switch and a frog that permits a train or other rail
vehicle to be transferred from one track to another.
Watchman - ANSWERS-A person designated at a worksite to warn the work group of an
approaching train and communicate with the engineer of an approaching train.
Wayside Mode - ANSWERS-A territory where CBTC has no control over CBTC-equipped trains.
CBTC trains automatically transition to wayside mode, a temporary territory.
Work Train - ANSWERS-One or more non-passenger cars used to support construction or
maintenance work activity on the railway.
Yard - ANSWERS-A system of tracks provided for making up trains, storing rail cars, and other
purposes.
Yard Mode - ANSWERS-ATC carborne equipment limits the speed of train movement in CBTC
yards to 12MPH, without otherwise constraining the train movement. Yard mode is only
available when the ATC mode switch is in the MCS position or any time the carborne controller
is reset.
Qualified Employee - ANSWERS-An employee who has completed the required training and is
authorized to perform specific duties within the PATH railway operations.
Qualified Person (QP) - ANSWERS-A person trained under Federal Law to perform specific
functions within the PATH railway operations.
Complete Solutions9
Switch (Sw.) - ANSWERS-A track structure used to move a train from one track to another,
operated remotely as part of an interlocking system.
Third Rail - ANSWERS-The rail providing traction power for a train's operation, also known as a
power or contact rail.
Third Rail Cover-Board - ANSWERS-A non-conductive board that covers the third rail, attached to
brackets.
Third Rail Side Incline - ANSWERS-An electrified extension alongside the third rail, allowing the
contact shoe to ride up onto the third rail at switch locations.
Track Indicator - ANSWERS-An illuminated device used with an interlocking signal to indicate the
track to which the train will be routed.
Transponder - ANSWERS-A passive device mounted in the roadbed, interrogated by the train to
identify its current location.
Trailing Point Switch - ANSWERS-Refers to the direction in which a train or other railroad
equipment approaches a turnout. A trailing point switch is one where the train or railroad
equipment approaches from one of the two diverging routes.
Train - ANSWERS-One or more rail cars coupled together, displaying proper front and rear lights,
crewed, and with a designated destination.
, Train Stop - ANSWERS-The roadway element that, when engaged, automatically results in an
emergency brake application.
Turnout - ANSWERS-An arrangement of a switch and a frog that permits a train or other rail
vehicle to be transferred from one track to another.
Watchman - ANSWERS-A person designated at a worksite to warn the work group of an
approaching train and communicate with the engineer of an approaching train.
Wayside Mode - ANSWERS-A territory where CBTC has no control over CBTC-equipped trains.
CBTC trains automatically transition to wayside mode, a temporary territory.
Work Train - ANSWERS-One or more non-passenger cars used to support construction or
maintenance work activity on the railway.
Yard - ANSWERS-A system of tracks provided for making up trains, storing rail cars, and other
purposes.
Yard Mode - ANSWERS-ATC carborne equipment limits the speed of train movement in CBTC
yards to 12MPH, without otherwise constraining the train movement. Yard mode is only
available when the ATC mode switch is in the MCS position or any time the carborne controller
is reset.
Qualified Employee - ANSWERS-An employee who has completed the required training and is
authorized to perform specific duties within the PATH railway operations.
Qualified Person (QP) - ANSWERS-A person trained under Federal Law to perform specific
functions within the PATH railway operations.
