What impact does increased air pressure in tires have on hydroplaning speed?

Increased air pressure in tires results in a higher hydroplaning speed. This is because higher tire pressure reduces the contact patch between the tire and the road surface. A smaller contact patch means that the tire has a more difficult time channeling water away, thus increasing the speed at which the tire can lose contact with the road and begin to hydroplane. When the tires are adequately inflated, they are more effective at maintaining traction and can withstand higher speeds before the risk of hydroplaning occurs.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the relationship between tire pressure and hydroplaning speed. Decreasing speed or having no impact fails to recognize the physics involved with tire pressure and contact patch dynamics. While it is true that tire size can influence hydroplaning characteristics, the fundamental relationship of increased pressure leading to higher hydroplaning speeds is a more direct and universal principle in tire physics.