Which of the following issues is most likely to result in aquaplaning?

Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water on the road prevents direct contact between the tires and the road surface. The primary factor that contributes to this phenomenon is the tread depth of the tires. Adequate tread depth is crucial because it helps channel water away from the tire's surface, allowing for better grip and traction. When the tread is insufficient, water cannot be evacuated effectively, which increases the risk of the tire slipping or sliding over the water layer.

While driving too fast for conditions, using worn-out brakes, and having improperly inflated tires can indeed affect the overall handling of the vehicle, they do not directly cause aquaplaning in the same way that inadequate tread depth does. Tread depth specifically determines how well the tires perform under wet conditions, making it the most relevant issue related to the likelihood of aquaplaning.