What is the function of the throttle in a locomotive?

The throttle in a locomotive is primarily responsible for controlling the speed of the locomotive by regulating the power output. By adjusting the throttle, the engineer can increase or decrease the amount of fuel delivered to the locomotive's engine, which directly affects its power and speed. This function is critical for managing the locomotive's acceleration, deceleration, and maintaining a specific speed during operation.

This understanding of the throttle's operation is essential for ensuring that the train operates safely and efficiently. As the engineer adjusts the throttle, they can respond to changing track conditions, gradients, and the demands of different train types, ultimately contributing to the overall control and performance of the locomotive.