What is the value of acceleration due to gravity in metric units?

• A. 9.81 m/s^2
• B. 32.2 ft/s^2
• C. 62.4 lb/ft^3
• D. 14.7 psi

Answer: (A)

The value of acceleration due to gravity in metric units is 9.81 m/s². This figure represents the rate at which an object accelerates towards the Earth when dropped from a height, assuming no air resistance. In a vacuum, where there is no interference from atmospheric forces, an object will fall freely and gain speed at this constant rate.

Understanding this constant is crucial in various fields of engineering and physics, as it is used in calculations involving forces, motion, and energy. For instance, in structural engineering, knowing how loads apply to structures is essential for ensuring safety and stability.

The other choices represent different concepts: 32.2 ft/s² is the equivalent value of acceleration due to gravity in imperial units; 62.4 lb/ft³ refers to the density of water in imperial units; and 14.7 psi represents atmospheric pressure at sea level in pounds per square inch. While these measurements are essential in their respective contexts, they do not apply to the specific metric measurement of gravitational acceleration.