What is artificial gravity?

Artificial gravity is the varying of gravity using artificial means. It is used largely in space, but also on Earth. It can be achieved by the use of different forces, in particular centrifugal force and (for short periods) linear acceleration. The creation of artificial gravity is considered desirable for long-term space travel or habitation. It allows for ease of mobility, and helps to avoid the adverse health effects of weightlessness in the absence of gravity.