NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

How can the total weight of an elevator be calculated using system pressure?

1. Add area to pressure

2. Multiply pressure by area

3. Subtract area from pressure

4. Divide pressure by area

The correct answer is: Multiply pressure by area

To determine the total weight of an elevator using system pressure, it is essential to understand the relationship between pressure, area, and force. Pressure is defined as force per unit area. In hydraulic systems, elevators often use a fluid that transmits pressure to lift the elevator. The formula relating pressure, force, and area is given by: \[ \text{Pressure} = \frac{\text{Force}}{\text{Area}} \] To find the force, or in this case, the total weight of the elevator, you can rearrange this formula. By multiplying the pressure by the area, you get the total force acting on that area, which in the context of an elevator would be the weight of the elevator itself. This principle relies on the idea that if you know the pressure within the hydraulic system and the area of the pistons that apply that pressure, you can easily calculate the total weight being lifted. Therefore, multiplying pressure by area provides a direct calculation of force, making it the correct method to find the total weight of the elevator.