What device is used to prevent a train from overrunning the end of the track?

The device used to prevent a train from overrunning the end of the track is a buffer stop. Buffer stops are installed at the terminus of rail lines or at any location where tracks end, serving as a physical barrier to halt the train and prevent it from running off the end of the track. They are designed to absorb the impact of the train, typically constructed from solid materials such as wood, metal, or concrete.

Buffer stops are crucial for safety in train operations, as they protect not only the train itself but also any infrastructure beyond the end of the track. In addition to their primary function of stopping trains, buffer stops may also enhance the stability of the train during the process of coming to a halt, ensuring a controlled stop without causing derailment or accidents.

In contrast, other devices mentioned may serve different purposes. Signal blocks relate to controlling train movements regarding signals, while bumper blocks and rail cushions are terms not typically used in standard rail operations for stopping trains at the end of tracks.