what is a frog? - Trains Magazine

There are also self-guarding frogs.  These are usually in low-speed applications, no extra guard rail. 

Another type is a spring frog.  These have a continuous running rail when straight, and the rail moves a bit when using the diverging route.

The upper rail of the frog moves when a wheel goes through.  Maybe somebody has a better picture.  These fell out of favor when manganese insert frogs came into use.  However, CN installed some recently, at Sussex.  They ride pretty good, as the rail is continuous, no dropping into a hole. 

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