G Force Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates the g-force experienced during a car crash based on the vehicle's velocity, stopping distance, and gravity.
Purpose: It helps understand the forces involved in collisions, which is important for safety analysis and accident reconstruction.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the deceleration in terms of g-forces by comparing the crash deceleration to Earth's gravity.
Details: Understanding g-forces helps evaluate potential injuries, design safer vehicles, and analyze crash test results.
Tips: Enter the vehicle speed before impact, estimated stopping distance during the crash, and gravity (default 9.81 m/s²). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a dangerous g-force level in a crash?
A: Humans can typically withstand 20-30G for very short durations. Fatalities often occur at 50G+ sustained for more than 50ms.
Q2: How does stopping distance affect g-force?
A: Longer stopping distances dramatically reduce g-forces. Crumple zones in cars increase stopping distance to reduce crash forces.
Q3: What's a typical stopping distance in a crash?
A: Modern cars typically have 0.5-1m of crush space in front impacts. Side impacts often have less (0.3-0.6m).
Q4: How do I convert km/h to m/s for velocity?
A: Multiply km/h by 0.2778 to get m/s (or divide by 3.6). 100 km/h = 27.78 m/s.
Q5: Does this account for seatbelts and airbags?
A: No, this calculates peak vehicle deceleration. Occupant g-forces may differ due to restraint systems.