What is the benefit of using hydraulic systems over mechanical systems?

Hydraulic systems have a significant advantage in transmitting power over long distances with minimal loss. This is primarily due to the incompressibility of hydraulic fluids, which allows for efficient energy transfer through pipes and hoses without significant pressure drops. Hydraulic systems can utilize smaller tubes and lower-pressure operations to achieve the desired force, making them ideal for applications where space and weight are considerations.

For instance, in heavy machinery or industrial applications, hydraulics can easily transmit power from a remote pump to various components like hydraulic cylinders or motors without the losses that would typically be associated with mechanical systems that require gears and belts, which can introduce friction and wear. This leads to a more reliable and efficient system capable of operating over longer distances compared to mechanical counterparts.

While other options mention advantages such as weight or cost, they do not capture the core benefit of hydraulic systems regarding power transmission efficiency, which is a crucial factor in many industrial and mechanical applications.