What does 'deadheading' refer to in rail transport?

Deadheading refers to the situation in rail transport where a train is traveling without carrying any passengers or freight. This typically occurs when a train crew needs to reposition the train to another location for operational purposes, perhaps for maintenance, returning to the starting point after completing a schedule, or when the locomotive is being repositioned to pick up a new load.

This term is specific to rail transport but shares similarities with other modes of transportation, where vehicles often travel empty during certain operational phases. Therefore, the concept of deadheading encapsulates the scenario of a train moving without its typical load, primarily for logistical and operational efficiency.

The other options describe scenarios that do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'deadheading.' Traveling with passengers implies an active service, while carrying freight without passengers does not indicate that the train is entirely empty of both load types. Operating during non-peak hours is unrelated to the deadheading context, as it pertains to scheduling rather than the presence or absence of passengers or freight.