What is meant by pneumatics in engineering?

Pneumatics in engineering refers specifically to the technology and applications involving the use of gas under pressure to produce mechanical motion. This field harnesses compressed air or gas to drive machinery, control tools, and create various forms of movement. The principles behind pneumatics leverage the characteristics of gases, especially air, which can be easily compressed and stored, allowing for efficient energy transfer in mechanical systems.

Pneumatic systems typically consist of components such as compressors, valves, actuators, and cylinders. These systems are commonly found in a range of applications, from manufacturing and construction to automation and robotics. The efficiency and simplicity of using compressed gases make pneumatics a popular choice in various mechanical processes, especially where electrical power is impractical or poses safety concerns.

Other options describe technologies that use different forms of energy: temperature, electricity, or solar power. Each of these fields has its own distinct principles and applications, but they do not pertain to the definition of pneumatics, which is centered on the use of pressurized gas to create motion.