How did the flat terrain of the European Plain help railroads expand?

The flat terrain of the European Plain significantly facilitated the expansion of railroads by enabling the unhindered construction of an extensive rail network.1

Because the plain is characterized by flat or gently undulating landscapes, engineers were able to build rail lines with greater ease compared to more rugged regions. This topography allowed for the development of main-line railroads with minimum grades and curvature, which are ideal for efficient, heavy-duty transport. By providing a level foundation, the plain supported the rapid growth of rail infrastructure, which became essential for moving bulk cargo—such as coal and iron ore—across the continent during the Industrial Revolution.231