What does the term "headway" specifically refer to in railway operations?

"Headway" refers specifically to the time interval between trains as they operate along a track. It indicates how often trains arrive at a particular station or a given point on the railway. Understanding headway is crucial for managing rail traffic effectively, ensuring trains are spaced adequately to maintain safety and efficiency.

For example, a shorter headway means trains are arriving more frequently, which can be beneficial during peak travel times when demand is high. Conversely, a longer headway may be implemented during off-peak hours when fewer passengers are traveling. This term plays a vital role in scheduling and operational planning, helping train operators optimize service frequency while minimizing the risk of collisions or delays.

Other choices do not capture the definition of headway accurately. The distance between train cars relates to train configuration rather than timing. The duration of train travel describes the overall travel time but does not pertain specifically to intervals between trains. Lastly, the speed of trains pertains to how fast they travel which is distinctly different from the timing aspect that headway encompasses.