What type of fluid power involves the use of pressurized liquids such as oil or water?

Hydraulics refers specifically to the technology and application of pressurized liquids, such as oil or water, to perform work. In hydraulic systems, fluids are typically incompressible, allowing them to transmit force efficiently. This principle is evident in various applications, from construction machinery like excavators to automotive brake systems, where the pressurized fluid moves mechanical components.

The focus on pressurized liquids distinguishes hydraulics from other related fields. For instance, pneumatics deals with gases, such as compressed air, while electro-hydraulics combines both hydraulic and electrical systems; it may use electrical signals to control hydraulic machinery. Fluid mechanics, on the other hand, is a broader scientific discipline that encompasses the behavior of both liquids and gases in motion and at rest, rather than a specific application like hydraulics.