page_title: Comparison of train and tram tracks
section_title: Terminology
hierarchical_section_title: Comparison of train and tram tracks / Terminology
caption_attribution_description: Flanged railway wheel.
context_page_description: A railway or railroad is a track where the vehicle travels over two parallel steel bars, called rails. The rails support and guide the wheels of the vehicles, which are traditionally either trains or trams. Modern light rail is a relatively new innovation which combines aspects of those two modes of transport. However fundamental differences in the track and wheel design are important, especially where trams or light railways and trains have to share a section of track, as sometimes happens in congested areas.
context_section_description: Both trams and trains  have flanged iron wheels with a horizontal section transferring the vehicle  weight to the rail and a vertical flange "inboard" to guide the vehicle along the rail using its inside edge.
caption: A flanged wheel on a train
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