Hydraulic jack

Definition

A hydraulic jack is a device that uses fluid pressure to lift heavy loads. It operates based on Pascal's Principle, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hydraulic jacks operate using Pascal's Principle.
2. The input force applied to a small piston results in a larger output force at a larger piston.
3. $P = \frac{F}{A}$, where $P$ is pressure, $F$ is force, and $A$ is area.
4. Hydraulic jacks can lift heavy loads with relatively small input forces due to the multiplication of force.
5. Common applications include car lifts and industrial machinery.

Review Questions

• Explain how Pascal's Principle applies to the operation of a hydraulic jack.
• How does the size of the pistons affect the output force in a hydraulic jack?
• Calculate the output force if an input force of 50 N is applied to a piston with an area of $0.01 m^2$, and the output piston has an area of $0.1 m^2$.

Related terms

Pascal's Principle: Principle stating that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions.

Hydraulics: Branch of science and engineering concerned with the mechanical properties of liquids and their applications.

Fluid Pressure: The pressure exerted by a fluid at any given point within it, typically measured in Pascals (Pa).