What does 'g' measure in aerodynamics?

In aerodynamics, 'g' measures the accelerative force with respect to gravity. Specifically, it represents the acceleration experienced by an object due to gravity, which is approximately 9.81 meters per second squared (m/s²) at Earth's surface. In the context of flight, 'g' is often used to quantify the forces acting on an aircraft during maneuvers, such as turns, climbs, or descents, where the pilot and aircraft can experience multiple times the force of gravity.

This concept is crucial for understanding the physical stresses on aircraft structures and the physiological effects on pilots and passengers, particularly during high-speed maneuvers. For instance, understanding how many g's an aircraft can safely handle helps in the design and operation of the aircraft, as well as in the training of pilots to tolerate these forces without adverse effects.