Which term denotes a gauge distance smaller than the standard gauge?

• A. Narrow gauge
• B. Standard gauge
• C. Mine dump
• D. Abandoned railroads

Answer: (A)

Narrow gauge describes a rail gauge that is smaller than standard gauge. Gauge is the distance between the inner faces of the two rails, and standard gauge is 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1/2 in). Any track narrower than that is called narrow gauge. This setup is often chosen to cut construction costs and to allow tighter curves and lighter equipment, which is useful in mountainous terrain or on industrial lines. Common examples include meters gauge (1,000 mm) and around 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in). The other terms listed aren’t about gauge width: mine dump isn’t a rail width term, and abandoned railroads refer to lines that are no longer in service, not their spacing. Standard gauge, by contrast, is the broader reference width, not a smaller one.