Which term describes a switch where the switch points face toward the approaching train movement?

Which term describes a switch where the switch points face toward the approaching train movement?

• A. Trailing Point Switch
• B. Normal Switch Position
• C. Yard Limits
• D. Facing Point Switch

Answer: (D)

Switch point orientation relative to the approaching train is what this item tests. A facing point switch is the term for a turnout where the points are oriented toward the direction the train is coming from. As the train approaches, its wheels meet the ends of the switch rails and are guided onto the chosen route. The name comes from the points “facing” the oncoming movement, meaning the train encounters them directly. This contrasts with a trailing point switch, where the points face away from the approaching train. Yard limits and normal switch position aren’t about the direction the points face.

Switch point orientation relative to the approaching train is what this item tests. A facing point switch is the term for a turnout where the points are oriented toward the direction the train is coming from. As the train approaches, its wheels meet the ends of the switch rails and are guided onto the chosen route. The name comes from the points “facing” the oncoming movement, meaning the train encounters them directly. This contrasts with a trailing point switch, where the points face away from the approaching train. Yard limits and normal switch position aren’t about the direction the points face.