How a steam train moves
Follow energy from a steam locomotive’s fire to its wheels.

Picture in words: 1. Heat: Burning fuel transfers heat to water in a boiler.
2. Steam: Hot, pressurized steam travels to cylinders.
3. Pistons: Steam pushes pistons; connecting rods transfer their motion.
4. Wheels: The rods turn driving wheels, which push against the rails.

One more wonder: Many modern trains use electric motors instead of steam pistons.
Observe trains only from permitted areas behind barriers. Never go onto railway tracks.

Question: What joins the piston’s motion to the wheels?
Answer: Connecting rods

Sources:
STEAM Museum: how an engine works — https://www.steam-museum.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/STEAM_Education_Pack_4___Activity_Sheets_to_use_before_during_and_after_your_visit-2.pdf

Reviewed 28 September 2026. Simplified educational illustration, not to scale.
https://atherverse.com/kids/how-things-work/trains/