The mechanics of
gaseous bodies is called also
pneumatics. The mechanics
of fluids in motion, with special reference to the methods of
obtaining from them useful results, constitutes
hydraulics.
Animal mechanics (Physiol.),
that
portion of physiology which has for its object the investigation of
the laws of equilibrium and motion in the animal body. The most
important mechanical principle is that of the lever, the bones
forming the arms of the levers, the contractile muscles the power,
the joints the fulcra or points of support, while the weight of the
body or of the individual limbs constitutes the weight or
resistance. --
Applied mechanics,
the
principles of abstract mechanics applied to human art; also, the
practical application of the laws of matter and motion to the
construction of machines and structures of all kinds.Mech"an*ism (?), n. [Cf. F.
mécanisme, L. mechanisma. See Mechanic.]
1. The arrangement or relation of the parts of a
machine; the parts of a machine, taken collectively; the arrangement
or relation of the parts of anything as adapted to produce an effect;
as, the mechanism of a watch; the mechanism of a sewing
machine; the mechanism of a seed pod.
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