Understanding Forces
G-force is a measurement of acceleration. 1 g is the acceleration we experience due to Earth’s gravity.
iPhone and Apple Watch have sensors that can measure these forces in three dimensions.
With proper recording and calibration, this app can reveal the forces you experience on roller coasters and other rides:
Force Types
Combined force adds the forces captured by the accelerometer together into one value. It tells you the total force experienced but not its direction.
Directional force is a measurement of acceleration along a specific axis or direction. These help us understand forces in three dimensions:
- Lateral force acts in a side-to-side direction. It feels like you’re being pulled to your left or right. You’ll notice it during sharp unbanked turns.
- Vertical force acts in an up-and-down direction. It feels like being pushed downwards into your seat or pulled upwards out of your seat.
- Longitudinal force acts in forward and backward directions. You feel this when speeding up or braking.