A hydraulic lift is used to lift a heavy machine that is pushing down on a 3.0 m2 piston A1 with a force F1 of 1200 N. What force F2 needs to be exerted on a 0.090 m2 piston A2 to lift the machine? im having problems tring to solve it can you please help me?

Question

A hydraulic lift is used to lift a heavy machine that is pushing down on a 3.0 m2 piston A1 with a force F1 of 1200 N. What force F2 needs to be exerted on a 0.090 m2 piston A2 to lift the machine? im having problems tring to solve  it can you please help me?

bobpursley · Answer

The pressure (force/area) is the same in the system. F1/A1=F2/A2 F2=F1*A2/A1=1200N*.090/3.0=400*.09=36N