Which factor can negatively influence loading speed?

The correct answer highlights the impact of excessive external scripts and heavy content on loading speed. When a webpage relies heavily on multiple external scripts, such as third-party tracking or advertising code, it can significantly delay the time it takes for the page to load. Each external script must be fetched from its server, which adds additional HTTP requests and can increase loading times, especially if those scripts are large or if external servers are slow to respond.

Similarly, heavy content—like large images, videos, or complex features—can strain the user's browser and resources, resulting in slower loading speeds. Optimizing web content is crucial for improving performance, and failure to do so can directly contribute to a poor user experience, as visitors may leave a slow-loading site.

In contrast, well-optimized images, minimalistic design elements, and responsive layouts are intended to enhance user experience and improve loading speed by streamlining what needs to be loaded and displayed on the page.