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Pascal's Principle Definition

publish date: 2026/05/18 21:47:6.276373 UTC

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According to Pascal's principle, what happens when an external pressure is applied to a completely enclosed fluid at rest?

The pressure is transmitted equally and undiminished to every portion of the fluid and the walls of its container.

The pressure increases only at the bottom of the container due to gravity.

The pressure decreases exponentially as it spreads away from the point of application.

The pressure is absorbed entirely by the fluid molecules, causing no change to the container walls.

Correct Answer

The pressure is transmitted equally and undiminished to every portion of the fluid and the walls of its container.

Explanation

Pascal's principle states that a change in pressure applied to an enclosed fluid is transmitted undiminished to every point in the fluid and to the walls of the containing vessel.

Reference

Basic Physics: A Self-Teaching Guide

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Pascal's Principle