What is the typical coefficient of friction on a railway for a funicular?

The coefficient of friction on a railway for a funicular is a critical parameter as it determines the traction and the ability of the funicular to ascend and descend slopes. A value of approximately 0.0119 is typical for this situation because it reflects the interaction between the train wheels and the railway, which is usually a smooth surface designed to minimize friction while still providing enough grip for safe operation.

This relatively low coefficient is helpful for reducing energy consumption and wear on the system, which is especially important in funiculars that operate on steep inclines. Additionally, the materials used in the construction of both the train wheels and the railway track are often optimized to achieve this specific range of friction, ensuring safe and efficient operation of the funicular system.

The other choices represent coefficients outside the typical range for funicular railways, which would result in either inadequate traction (if too low) or increased wear and energy costs (if too high). Hence, maintaining a coefficient around 0.0119 is vital for the overall performance and safety of funiculars operating on inclined railways.