How are load factors applied to an aircraft typically measured?

Load factors in aviation are primarily expressed in terms of "G's," which represent the acceleration due to gravity. This measurement captures how much load is experienced by the aircraft relative to its weight. For example, a load factor of 2 G's means that the aircraft experiences twice the force of gravity, effectively doubling the stress on its structure and systems.

Using G's as a measurement provides a standardized way to assess how forces during maneuvers, such as turns or during turbulence, impact the aircraft. It allows pilots and engineers to understand the stresses that the aircraft may endure during various flight conditions, ensuring safety and proper operational limits.

The other options—radians, kilograms, and pounds—do not effectively communicate the dynamic forces acting on an aircraft in the context of load factors. Radians are a unit of angular measurement, kilograms and pounds relate to weight rather than the forces experienced in flight.