FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Physics, Math and Fluid LinesEasy
A hydraulic actuator piston has an effective area of 4 square inches. If system pressure is 1,500 psi, how much force does the piston produce?
- A375 lb
- B3,000 lb
- C6,000 lb
- D1,500 lb
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 6,000 lb
Force equals pressure multiplied by area: F = P × A = 1,500 psi × 4 in² = 6,000 lb.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Results from dividing pressure by area instead of multiplying.
- B. Results from using half the correct area value.
- D. Simply restates the pressure value, ignoring the area.
Force = Pressure × Area
The relationship used to determine the output force of a hydraulic or pneumatic piston based on system pressure and piston area.
- F = P × A
- Pressure is measured in psi (lb/in²)
- Area must be in square inches for the formula to work directly
- Used to size actuators and cylinders in hydraulic systems
Memory trick: Pressure pushes on area to create force — PA equals Force.