Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) trains avoid the primary source of friction—physical contact with the track—by using powerful electromagnets to levitate the vehicle. Instead of wheels, the train "floats" on a cushion of air, typically between 1 and 10 centimeters above a specialized guideway. This is achieved through magnetic repulsion or attraction (depending on whether it’s an EMS or EDS system), where the magnetic poles of the train undercarriage and the track push against each other. By eliminating rolling resistance from wheels and bearings, the train can reach extreme speeds, such as the 600 km/h (373 mph) record set in Japan. The only significant force the train must overcome at high speed is aerodynamic drag (air resistance). Because there are no moving parts in direct contact with the track, maglev trains are also incredibly quiet and require much less mechanical maintenance than traditional high-speed rail systems.