Why is it that the handrail of an escalator never moves at the same speed as the steps themselves?

Question

Why is it that the handrail of an escalator never moves at the same speed as the steps themselves?

Answer 1

The handrail wants to go faster then the steps. Because of the weight the steps are carrying from bodies on it. The steps do go faster when less people are on it.

Answer 2

two reasons the steps are very positive driven by chain and gear box the hanrail not being load bearing is driven by belts when these things first came intomoperation it was decided to keep the arrangement because it kept people aware so they were safer .