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Hydraulic press
Beginner
Small force on a small piston gives large force on a big one.
F₂/F₁ = A₂/A₁A small force on a small piston creates equal pressure that gives a large force on a big piston: F₂ = F₁(A₂/A₁). The small piston moves farther, so work is conserved.
A 100 N push on 10 cm² lifts 1000 N on 100 cm².
You gain force but lose distance.
In more detail
A hydraulic press uses Pascal's law to multiply force. A small force on a small piston creates the same pressure on a large piston, which exerts a much larger force.
Real-world uses
- Car jacks and hydraulic presses lift heavy loads with small forces.
- Excavators use hydraulics to move heavy arms.
- Car mechanics use hydraulic lifts that let a person raise a heavy vehicle with a modest push on a small piston.
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Frequently asked questions
How is force multiplied?
The force ratio equals the area ratio of the two pistons.
Is energy gained?
No. The larger piston moves a much shorter distance, conserving work.
Does a hydraulic press create energy?
No. The small piston moves through a larger distance, so the work done on both sides is the same.
Related topics in Fluids & Elasticity
Units of pressure · Pressure in a fluid · Pascal's law · Atmospheric pressure · Barometer · Manometer