As a transportation safety expert with extensive knowledge in the mechanics of rail systems and the physics involved in train operations, I can provide a detailed explanation regarding the impact of placing a penny on train tracks and the potential consequences of such an action.

Firstly, it's important to understand the sheer scale and power of a moving train. A train in motion carries a significant amount of kinetic energy, which is a product of its mass and velocity. This kinetic energy is what gives it the momentum to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward. The mass of a train can range from a few hundred to several thousand tons, and when it's moving at high speeds, even small obstacles can pose a significant threat to the safety of the train and its passengers.

When considering the effect of a penny on a train track, we must take into account the penny's mass and the force it can exert. A standard US penny weighs approximately 2.5 to 5.67 grams, depending on the year of minting and the material used. In comparison to the mass of a train, this is an extremely small figure. The force exerted by the penny is negligible and would not be sufficient to alter the train's trajectory or cause it to derail.

Derailing a train is a complex process that typically involves a significant force being applied to the train's wheels or the track itself. This could occur due to track damage, mechanical failure, or external factors such as landslides or collisions with other objects. However, the force required to derail a train is much greater than what a penny could provide.

Moreover, the design of train wheels and tracks is such that they are built to withstand a certain amount of foreign objects. The flanges on the wheels guide the train along the track and are designed to clear small debris that may be on the rails. While a penny might be flattened by the passing train, it would not cause any significant damage to the wheels or the track.

However, it's crucial to note that placing a penny or any object on a train track is extremely dangerous and is not recommended. While the penny itself may not derail a train, the act of tampering with train tracks can lead to catastrophic accidents. It can also result in severe legal consequences, as it is considered a criminal act in many jurisdictions.

Flattening pennies using trains, despite being a popular myth, is also a dangerous practice. The heat generated by the friction between the train and the penny can cause the penny to become extremely hot, posing a burn risk to anyone handling it immediately after it has been flattened. Additionally, the flattened penny can have sharp edges, which can cause injury.

In conclusion, placing a penny on a train track is not a method to derail a train. The mass and force of a penny are too insignificant to impact the trajectory of a train. However, it is a dangerous and illegal act that can lead to severe consequences. It is always advisable to respect train tracks and rail systems and to avoid any actions that could compromise the safety of the public and the integrity of the transportation infrastructure.

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A penny left on a track does not typically derail a train. A train speeding along its track is a very heavy object with an immense amount of momentum. The penny is simply too light to do much of anything. ... Flattening pennies using trains is still dangerous though; to the people placing the pennies.Dec 8, 2012read more >>