What do the large, broad hindquarters of a rabbit contribute to?

The large, broad hindquarters of a rabbit are specifically designed to contribute significantly to its jumping power. This anatomical feature allows the rabbit to have strong muscle mass and leverage, which is essential for powerful leaps. Rabbits are prey animals, and their ability to jump well can help them evade predators by allowing quick changes in direction and the ability to leap over obstacles. The strength derived from their hindquarters enables them to propel themselves off the ground with more force, making jumping an essential survival mechanism.

While other options refer to aspects like speed, balance, and endurance, they do not directly emphasize the role of the hindquarters in generating the explosive power needed for high jumps, which is crucial for a rabbit's escape and survival in the wild.