Which of the following is an advantage of hydraulic systems in braking?

Hydraulic systems in braking offer the advantage of increased force application. This is due to the fundamental principle of hydraulics, which amplifies force through the use of incompressible fluids. When force is applied to the brake pedal, it is transmitted through hydraulic fluid to brake components at the wheels, allowing a relatively small input force from the driver to generate a much larger output force at the brake pads or shoes.

This amplification is crucial for effective braking, especially in larger and heavier vehicles, where significant force is needed to decelerate or stop. As such, the increased force application translates into greater stopping power and improved safety, making hydraulic braking systems highly effective.

In contrast, the other options do not apply as advantages of hydraulic systems in braking. While hydraulic brakes can be highly efficient, they are not necessarily cheaper to produce (lower cost) nor do they generally require less maintenance than mechanical systems. Additionally, the speed of hydraulic actuation may not outpace other systems, as speed can depend on various factors beyond the hydraulic mechanism alone. Thus, increased force application is the standout benefit of hydraulic braking systems.