Why are small gaps left at regular intervals between consecutive iron rails on a railway track?

Why are small gaps left at regular intervals between consecutive iron rails on a railway track?
  1. To reduce the weight of iron needed
  2. To allow room for thermal expansion of rails during hot summers
  3. To let rainwater drain out quickly
  4. To increase train speed by reducing contact area

Solution

Iron expands when heated during summer; gaps prevent rails from bending or warping by accommodating this expansion.

Asked in: Homi Bhabha Practice

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