Which characteristic distinguishes a floor jack from a bottle jack?

The characteristic that distinguishes a floor jack from a bottle jack is that a floor jack has a low profile and a wider base. Floor jacks are specifically designed to provide stability and ease of use when lifting vehicles or heavy machinery. Their low profile allows them to fit under vehicles that have a lower clearance, making them particularly useful for automotive applications. The wider base enhances stability during lifting, reducing the risk of tipping or accidents.

In contrast, bottle jacks are typically taller and have a narrower base. They are designed primarily for vertical lifting and do not have the same stability characteristics as floor jacks. This makes them less suited for situations where lateral stability is crucial. Additionally, the compact nature of some bottle jacks favors portability over the stable lifting platform provided by floor jacks.