Question

What force must be exerted on the master cylinder of a hydraulic lift to support the weight of a 2300 kg car (a big car) resting on the slave cylinder? The master cylinder has a 2.50 cm diameter, while the slave's is 24.0 cm.

Answer 1

P = F / A Pressure = force / area

F1 / A1 = F2 / A2 pressure is constant throughout cylinder

F2 = F1 * A2 / A1 = 2300 kg * 9.80 m/s^2 * (.0125 / .12)^2

F2 = 22540 N * .011 = 246 N