Final answer:
In an air brake system, the slack adjuster functions as a lever to transmit force to the brakes. It is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the brakes as it adjusts for component wear over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided:
- the brake chamber
- the caliper
- the slack adjuster
- the rotor
The component that functions as a lever in an air brake system is c) the slack adjuster. Levers are simple machines that are used to transmit force, and in the context of air brakes, the slack adjuster serves this purpose. It adjusts the distance that the air brake chamber's push rod has to travel to apply the brakes. This ensures that the brakes remain effective as components naturally wear down over time. Without a properly functioning slack adjuster, brakes can become less responsive or even fail to engage.