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A deisel locomotive has a deisel motor in it which converts deisel fuel (chemical energy) into mechanical energy. The deisel motor is connected directly to an electric generator so the mechanical energy is converted into electric energy. The electricity from the generator is run to an electric (traction) motor which converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy. The output from the traction motor is connected directly to the wheels to drive the locomotive. One might want to ask why a locomotive converts energy three times in order to run when your car only converts energy (from chemical to mechanical) one time to move. The answer is that the electrical system eliminates the need for a complicated transmission. To your other question: What's the deal with horsepower? When the traction motor is making the wheels go it must exert a torque on the wheel which exceeds the resisting (friction and rolling resistance) torque in the wheel. The maximum 'kick' that a locomotive can generate is the sliding friction times the weight on the drive axles. This is what controls the amount a locomotive can start moving (adjusted for grade of course). The rate at which the engine can accelerate is dictated by horsepower provided that you are travelling at a speed where the wheels won't slip first. As the wheel in contact with the rail pushes against the traction motor it creates a 'back resistance' to the generator. The magnetic field in the generator resists the rotation of the armature in the generator which is connected to the deisel motor. It takes horsepower to make the armature turn faster and generate more voltage to run the traction motor to make the locomotive accelerate. One more tid-bit . . . The motor in a deisel locomotive turns much slower than the engine in your car which saves considerably on the wear and tear on the motor. This is another reason that electricity is used instead of a complicated mechanical transmission. You may hear some refer to a deisel as a deisel-electric. This is why they do. Clear as mud? - Ed
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