Convert between various acceleration units instantly. From meters per second squared to g-force, Galileo to feet per second squared - essential for physics, aerospace, and automotive applications.
Formula: ft/s² = m/s² × 3.28084
Formula: m/s² = ft/s² ÷ 3.28084
Formula: g = m/s² ÷ 9.80665
Formula: m/s² = g × 9.80665
Formula: Gal = m/s² × 100
Formula: m/s² = Gal ÷ 100
Formula: ft/s² = g × 32.174
Formula: g = ft/s² ÷ 32.174
Acceleration measures the rate of change of velocity over time. It is a fundamental concept in physics and engineering, appearing everywhere from falling objects to rocket launches, from car braking to roller coaster design. Understanding acceleration units and their conversions is essential for scientists, engineers, and anyone studying motion. This comprehensive acceleration converter provides instant, accurate conversions between all commonly used acceleration measurement units.
Meters per second squared (m/s²) is the SI unit of acceleration. It represents the change in velocity (in meters per second) that occurs each second. For example, if an object accelerates at 5 m/s², its velocity increases by 5 meters per second every second. This unit is fundamental in physics and is used in Newton's Second Law (F = ma). The acceleration due to gravity at Earth's surface is approximately 9.80665 m/s², a value so important it has its own symbol: g.
G-force (g) expresses acceleration relative to Earth's gravitational acceleration. One g equals the acceleration we experience standing on Earth (9.80665 m/s²). Expressing acceleration in g's is intuitive because we can relate it to our everyday experience. Fighter pilots may experience 9g during extreme maneuvers, while astronauts experience about 3g during launch. Roller coasters typically produce 3-4g, and car crashes can generate forces of 20g or more. G-force is widely used in aviation, automotive safety testing, and amusement park engineering.
Feet per second squared (ft/s²) is the standard acceleration unit in the Imperial system. It is commonly used in American engineering and physics applications. One ft/s² equals approximately 0.3048 m/s². The acceleration due to gravity expressed in this unit is approximately 32.174 ft/s². Automotive performance specifications in the United States often use ft/s² to describe acceleration capabilities, alongside the more familiar 0-60 mph times.
The Galileo (Gal), named after the famous physicist Galileo Galilei, equals one centimeter per second squared (cm/s²). Since 1 m/s² = 100 Gal, this smaller unit is useful for measuring very small accelerations. Geophysicists use milliGals (mGal) extensively to measure tiny variations in Earth's gravitational field, which can indicate underground resources, geological structures, or tectonic activity. Precision gravimeters can detect changes as small as a few microGals.