sandbox
1 of 1nouna shallow container or a hole in the ground that is filled with sand and is large enough for children to play in
A sandbox is an outdoor area filled with soft, loose sand where children can play. It is usually enclosed by a wooden, plastic, or metal border to keep the sand contained. Children use the sand to build castles, dig holes, or create other imaginative structures using toys like shovels, buckets, and molds. Sandboxes are commonly found in playgrounds, parks, and backyards, offering a creative and sensory play experience. They help develop fine motor skills, creativity, and social interaction as children work together or play independently.
mold consisting of a box with sand shaped to mold metal
a container for storing sand, used to improve traction between the wheels of a train and the rails
A sandbox is a container that holds sand and is used to improve the grip between the train’s wheels and the tracks. When the train starts to slip or has trouble gaining traction, sand from the sandbox is released onto the rails. This helps the wheels maintain better contact with the track, especially in slippery or wet conditions. The sandbox is typically located on the locomotive or undercarriage, and it plays an important role in ensuring the train can move safely and smoothly.
- Sandboxes in trains are crucial for preventing wheel slippage during adverse weather conditions such as rain or snow.
- The sandbox releases sand onto the rails when the train's wheels start slipping, enhancing grip and maintaining safe operation.
- Engineers regularly check and refill sandboxes to ensure they are adequately stocked for any unexpected loss of traction.
- Older locomotives may have manual controls for releasing sand from the sandbox, whereas modern ones often have automated systems.
- Without sandboxes, trains would struggle to maintain traction on slippery tracks, potentially causing delays or safety hazards.