what is maglev

Maglev, short for magnetic levitation, is a system of train transportation that uses two sets of magnets to repel and push the train up off the track and move it forward, taking advantage of the lack of friction. The two main types of maglev technology are electromagnetic suspension (EMS) and electrodynamic suspension (EDS) . In EMS, electronically controlled electromagnets in the train attract it to a magnetically conductive track, usually made of steel. In EDS, the train is levitated by the repulsive force between superconducting magnets on the train and coils of wire on the track. Maglev trains are faster, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly than modern wheeled trains. They have several advantages over conventional railway systems, including lower operating and maintenance costs, significantly lower odds of derailment, an extremely quiet and smooth ride for passengers, little to no air pollution, and the railcars can be built wider and make it more comfortable for passengers. Maglev technology holds great promise for the future and has the potential to be a cheaper, faster, safer, and greener form of transportation than we have today.