Final answer:
A one-way check valve will continue to hold the same application of the brake chamber if a small leak develops. It allows fluid to flow in one direction and prevents backflow. The valve helps maintain pressure in the brake system for continued operation despite the leak.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a small leak develops in a brake chamber, the valve that will continue to hold the same application of the chamber is known as a one-way check valve. This valve allows fluid (such as hydraulic fluid or air in pneumatic systems) to flow in one direction and prevents it from flowing back in the opposite direction. In the context of hydraulic brakes, Pascal's principle is applied, where pressure applied at one point is transmitted unchanged throughout the fluid. When the brake pedal is pressed, a force is exerted and increased by both a simple lever and the hydraulic system. The pressure is then uniformly distributed to each wheel cylinder, allowing for even braking. If there's a leak, the check valve helps maintain pressure in the part of the system before the leak so that the brakes can still function, albeit less efficiently due to the loss of pressure after the leak point.
Regarding gases in a braking system, it's important for efficiency that the system is purged of air, as gases are compressible and can reduce the effectiveness of the brake application. If air is present in the hydraulic fluid, it can compress when the brake is applied, leading to a spongy or inefficient braking feel. Therefore, it is crucial to bleed out air from the brake lines for proper brake operation.