key term - Pascal's principle

Definition

Pascal's principle states that when pressure is applied to a fluid in a closed container, the pressure is transmitted equally in all directions. In other words, any change in pressure at one point of a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished to all points of the fluid.

Related terms

Hydraulic system: A hydraulic system uses Pascal's principle to transmit force through an incompressible fluid, such as oil or water.

Pressure gauge: A device used to measure the pressure exerted by fluids or gases.

Compressibility: The measure of how much a substance can be compressed under certain conditions.