G-force

G-force (also known as gravitational force) is a measurement of the type of acceleration that causes a perception of weight. Despite the name, it is incorrect to consider g-force a fundamental force, as "g-force" is a type of acceleration that can be measured with an accelerometer.

Definition

G-force is a measurement of acceleration, not force. It is a measure of the acceleration due to gravity, or more accurately, the acceleration due to gravity divided by the acceleration due to gravity at the surface of the Earth, which is 9.8 m/s².

Effects on the human body

The human body can tolerate relatively high g-forces, but only for a short period of time. For example, during a rapid deceleration such as a car crash, a person can experience g-forces in the range of 100 g for a brief moment. However, sustained g-forces of more than a few times gravity can lead to serious injury or death.

Measurement

G-force can be measured using an accelerometer. These devices measure acceleration in terms of g-force.

See also

• Acceleration
• Gravity
• Physics

References

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