Why are the forces in Newton's 3 laws equal, but not in hydraulic systems?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion clarifies the relationship between Newton's Third Law and hydraulic systems. Participants assert that while Newton's Third Law states that forces are equal and opposite, hydraulic systems operate on the principle of pressure magnification, where a smaller input force can generate a larger output force due to differences in piston area. The key takeaway is that in hydraulic systems, the force exerted by the fluid on the piston is not a direct action-reaction pair with the input force, but rather a result of pressure applied over varying areas. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurately applying Newton's laws in practical scenarios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Third Law of Motion
  • Basic knowledge of hydraulic systems and their components
  • Familiarity with the concept of pressure and force
  • Knowledge of mechanical advantage in simple machines
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of hydraulic systems and their applications in engineering
  • Learn about the mathematical relationship between pressure, force, and area in hydraulics
  • Explore the concept of mechanical advantage in levers and other simple machines
  • Investigate real-world applications of Newton's laws in various mechanical systems
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, engineers working with hydraulic systems, and anyone interested in the practical applications of Newton's laws in mechanics.

  • #31
I'm closing this thread now, as we are running out of new ways to say the same thing.

As always, PM me if you would like to add something new.
 

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 51 ·
2
Replies
51
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
  • · Replies 117 ·
4
Replies
117
Views
9K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
7K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K