Which of the following types of brakes are classified as individual brakes?

The classification of individual brakes refers to types of brakes that can operate independently on each wheel of a vehicle or piece of equipment. Each of the mentioned types—external contracting, internal expanding, and disc brakes—falls under this category because they can control the braking action of each wheel separately.

External contracting brakes function by contracting around the outside of a drum, activating independently for each wheel. They can efficiently apply braking force as they are designed to act on each wheel independently, providing better control.

Internal expanding brakes operate inside a drum or housing, expanding outward against the drum's inner surface to create friction. Similar to external contracting brakes, their design allows for independent operation at each wheel, contributing to effective vehicle control.

Disc brakes are widely used in modern vehicles and work by squeezing a disc (rotor) between two pads, generating braking friction. Just like the other types, they can provide individual braking control on each wheel, which enhances stopping performance and stability during braking.

Collectively, since all three types can effectively function as individual brakes, the correct answer recognizes their capacity for independent operation and braking effectiveness.