How do you find the vertical distance moved by a piston using the piston formula?

To find the vertical distance moved by a piston using the piston formula, it is essential to understand the relationship between the mechanical advantage (MA) and the distances traveled by the pistons in a hydraulic system. The concept relies on Pascal's Principle, which states that pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished throughout the fluid.

In hydraulic systems, the mechanical advantage is defined as the ratio of the force exerted by the output piston to the force applied by the input piston. The distance moved by the first piston, when multiplied by the mechanical advantage, gives the distance that the second piston moves. This relationship helps to transfer motion from one piston to another effectively. Therefore, by multiplying the mechanical advantage by the vertical distance moved by the first piston, you can correctly calculate the vertical distance moved by the second piston.

Thus, the procedure incorporates both force and distance, illustrating how work is maintained in the hydraulic system, making this choice the correct method for determining the vertical distance traveled by the piston.