Question:medium

A hydraulic actuator works on which of the following law?

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Think of Pascal's law as the law of Pressure. Since all hydraulic systems (actuators, brakes, jacks) work by using fluid Pressure, Pascal is always the scientist behind them.
Updated On: Jul 1, 2026
  • Darcy Law
  • Pascal’s law
  • Faraday’s Law
  • Hick’s law
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

1. The Principle of Pascal's Law: Pascal's Law states that pressure applied to an enclosed fluid is transmitted undiminished to every portion of the fluid and to the walls of the containing vessel. $$\text{Pressure (P)} = \frac{\text{Force (F)}}{\text{Area (A)}}$$

2. Application in Actuators: Hydraulic actuators (like pistons and cylinders) utilize this law to achieve massive mechanical advantage:

Force Multiplication: By applying a small force to a small area, a specific pressure is generated. That same pressure, when acting on a much larger area in the actuator, generates a significantly larger output force.

Energy Transmission: Because the fluid is nearly incompressible, the movement is precise and the force transmission is instantaneous.

3. Why Other Laws are Not Applicable:

Darcy Law: Relates to the flow of fluid through porous media (like soil).

Faraday’s Law: Relates to electromagnetism and the induction of electric current.

Hick’s Law: Relates to human psychology and decision-making time.
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