What is a potential benefit of using engine bleed air for anti-icing?

Utilizing engine bleed air for anti-icing applications is highly effective at maintaining temperature because bleed air is taken directly from the engine's compressors. This air is already at a higher temperature relative to the surrounding environment, making it particularly suited for preventing ice formation on critical surfaces such as wings, engine inlets, and leading edges. When this warm air is ducted to these areas, it effectively melts any ice or prevents it from forming in the first place, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

The other options, while they may have their own merits, do not directly relate to the effectiveness of bleed air in anti-icing applications. For example, the requirement for an external power source does not pertain to bleed air as it is self-generated from the engine. Similarly, while discussions on weight and installation can be important, they are not specific advantages that highlight the primary functionality of using bleed air for anti-icing purposes.