Which statement best describes a false gradient?

Which statement best describes a false gradient?

• A. A permanent gradient on a steady descent
• B. A gradient that exists when the system is fully charged
• C. The temporary gradient that exists when the system is less than fully charged (for example, the exaggerated difference between head end and rear end after a release)
• D. A gradient caused by a brake pipe rupture

Answer: (C)

A false gradient is a temporary pressure difference that appears when the air brake system isn’t yet fully charged. In a train brake system, after a release, the front and rear portions can show an exaggerated difference in pressure because the pipes and reservoirs haven’t equalized yet. This gradient isn’t a stable, sustained condition; it will disappear as the system charges and pressures even out. So describing it as a temporary gradient that exists when the system is less than fully charged—for example, the exaggerated head end versus rear end after a release—captures the concept. The other scenarios describe either a permanent or fully charged condition, or a fault like a brake pipe rupture, none of which characterize a false gradient.

A false gradient is a temporary pressure difference that appears when the air brake system isn’t yet fully charged. In a train brake system, after a release, the front and rear portions can show an exaggerated difference in pressure because the pipes and reservoirs haven’t equalized yet. This gradient isn’t a stable, sustained condition; it will disappear as the system charges and pressures even out. So describing it as a temporary gradient that exists when the system is less than fully charged—for example, the exaggerated head end versus rear end after a release—captures the concept. The other scenarios describe either a permanent or fully charged condition, or a fault like a brake pipe rupture, none of which characterize a false gradient.