MPH to G Force Calculator

🧮 G-Force Calculator

Enter the speed in MPH and the turn radius to calculate the G-force experienced during the turn.

Speed (MPH)

MPH

Turn Radius (Meters)

📐 G-Force Formula

The G-force calculation uses the centripetal acceleration formula adapted for vehicles making turns:

Gf = (V/2.237)² / R / 9.81

Gf = G-force experienced during the turn
V = Velocity in miles per hour (MPH)
R = Turn radius in meters
2.237 = Conversion factor from MPH to m/s
9.81 = Acceleration due to gravity (m/s²)

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Speed Impact

Higher speeds result in exponentially higher G-forces due to the squared relationship in the formula.

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Turn Radius

Tighter turns (smaller radius) create higher G-forces as the vehicle must change direction more rapidly.

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Safety Limits

Most humans can tolerate 2-4 Gs comfortably, while racing drivers may experience up to 6 Gs.

💡 Example Calculation

Scenario: A race car traveling at 80 MPH around a turn with a 30-meter radius.

Calculation:

Speed: 80 MPH
Turn radius: 30 meters
G-force = (80/2.237)² / 30 / 9.81 = 4.12 Gs

Result: The driver experiences 4.12 times the force of gravity, which is at the upper limit of comfortable human tolerance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How do you calculate G-force from MPH?

To calculate G-force from MPH, use the formula: Gf = (V/2.237)² / R / 9.81, where V is velocity in MPH, R is turn radius in meters, and Gf is the resulting G-force.

What affects G-force in a turn?

G-force in a turn depends on two main factors: the speed of the vehicle (higher speed = higher G-force) and the radius of the turn (tighter turn = higher G-force).

What is a dangerous G-force level?

For humans, sustained G-forces above 4-5 Gs can cause blackouts, while forces above 9 Gs can be fatal. Racing drivers typically experience 2-4 Gs in turns.

Why is 2.237 used in the formula?

The number 2.237 is the conversion factor from miles per hour to meters per second. Since 1 mph = 0.44704 m/s, we divide by 2.237 to convert the speed units for the physics formula.

Can this calculator be used for motorcycles and aircraft?

Yes, the MPH to G Force formula can be applied to any vehicle making a turn, including motorcycles, bicycles, boats, and aircraft, as long as you know the speed and turn radius.