Steam locomotives

We are going to explain you the different aspects related with steam locomotives with a set of questions to make easier to understand the explanation:

What is a steam locomotive?

A steam locomotive is a type of railway locomotive that produces its pulling power through a steam engine. You could find them pulling from wagons on the railway, now they are in museums because their use led to a great contamination of the environment.

Who made the first steam locomotive?

The first steam locomotive, made by Richard Trevithick, first operated on 21 february 1804. The first commercially successful steam locomotive was created in 1812–13 by John Blenkinsop.
The Locomotion No. 1 is the first steam locomotive to carry passengers on a public rail line, built by George Stephenson and his son Robert's company Robert Stephenson and Company.

Locomotion at Darlington Railway Center and Museum

How does a steam locomotive work?

These locomotives are fueled by burning combustible material – usually coal, wood, or oil – to produce steam in a boiler.  The steam moves reciprocating pistons which are mechanically connected to the locomotive's main wheels (drivers). Both fuel and water supplies are carried with the locomotive, either on the locomotive itself or in wagons (tenders) pulled behind.

Interior of a steam locomotive in the railway museum in Madrid