In the context of engineering, what do hydraulics refer to?

Hydraulics specifically refers to the use of liquid pressure to perform mechanical work. In engineering, this principle is utilized to create force and movement through the manipulation of fluids, typically incompressible liquids like water or oil. By applying pressure to a confined fluid, hydraulic systems can generate significant amounts of power and force, enabling machinery to lift heavy loads, operate tools, and control various systems.

For instance, in hydraulic lifts, the pressure exerted on the liquid is transmitted throughout the system, allowing operators to raise and lower objects efficiently. The fundamental concept revolves around Pascal's principle, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted equally in all directions. This enables hydraulic mechanisms to operate smoothly and effectively across a wide range of applications, from construction equipment to automotive braking systems.