10.24 Gravitational Forces

The human body is most accustomed to the gravitational force experienced on Earth, which is approximately 1G.

This is the force that we feel as "normal" gravity.

When flying in an aircraft, especially during manoeuvres like take-off, landing, or aerobatics, the body can experience various G-forces.

These forces can be both positive and negative, depending on the direction of the acceleration.

Pilots and passengers may feel the effects of these forces, such as the sensation of being pushed back into their seats during take-off or feeling lighter during a pushover manoeuvre.

The mass of the blood plays a role in how it responds to changes in momentum during different G-forces.

When we experience positive G-forces, the blood is forced towards our feet.

Conversely, during negative G-forces, the blood is pushed towards our head.

These changes in blood flow can have various effects on our bodies.

10.24.2 Explain the effects of positive and negative accelerations on:

(a) the circulatory system, (b) vision, and (c) consciousness.

Both positive and negative accelerations can put stress on the circulatory system, potentially affecting blood pressure and heart rate.