Knots are a unit of speed commonly used in maritime and aviation contexts, yet many are unfamiliar with how fast a knot is compared to more widely used measurements like miles or kilometers per hour. This article demystifies knots, explaining their speed, historical origins, and how they compare to other speed units.
How Fast Is A Knot?
A knot equals one nautical mile per hour. A nautical mile, measuring the distance between two points of latitude, is approximately 1.15 statute miles or precisely 1.15078 miles.
To convert knots to miles per hour, multiply by 1.15. For example, a ship traveling at 20 knots is moving at about 23 MPH.
Knots (KN) are the standard speed measurement in maritime and aviation due to their direct relation to the Earth’s geography, crucial for accurate navigation.
Standard cruise ships move at speeds between 21 and 23 knots, which translates to about 24 to 26 miles per hour using the conversion method mentioned. This demonstrates the close relationship between knots and miles per hour, making knots a practical unit of speed for maritime and aviation purposes.
Why Is The Term Knots Used?
The term ‘knots’ has its origins in the 17th century, used by sailors to estimate their speed using a log and rope marked at intervals. This method evolved into the modern measurement of nautical miles per hour. Despite historical variations, knots have become standardized for maritime and aviation use, offering a direct link to the Earth’s geographical measurements and remaining essential for precise navigation.
Knots provide a specific speed measurement related to nautical miles, which are more relevant than standard miles when traveling by sea. This historical measurement method has been standardized in nations like the UK and the US in the 20th century, with the US adopting it in 1954 and the UK in 1970.
Conversion Table For Knots To Miles Per Hour (MPH) And Kilometers Per Hour (KMH)
Understanding the conversion between knots, miles per hour, and kilometers per hour is vital for navigators and enthusiasts alike. Below is a table that simplifies these conversions, making it easy to understand and apply in practical scenarios.
| Knots | Miles Per Hour | Kilometers Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Knot | 1,15 mph | 1,85 kmh |
| 2 Knots | 2,30 mph | 3,70 kmh |
| 3 Knots | 3,45 mph | 5,56 kmh |
| 4 Knots | 4,60 mph | 7,41 kmh |
| 5 Knots | 5,75 mph | 9,26 kmh |
| 10 Knots | 11,51 mph | 18,52 kmh |
| 15 Knots | 17,26 mph | 27,78 kmh |
| 20 Knots | 23,02 mph | 37,04 kmh |
| 25 Knots | 28,77 mph | 46,30 kmh |
| 30 Knots | 34,52 mph | 55,56 kmh |
| 35 Knots | 40,28 mph | 64,82 kmh |
| 40 Knots | 46,03 mph | 74,08 kmh |
| 45 Knots | 51,79 mph | 83,34 kmh |
| 50 Knots | 57,54 mph | 92,60 kmh |
| 60 Knots | 69,05 mph | 111,12 kmh |
| 70 Knots | 80,55 mph | 129,64 kmh |
| 80 Knots | 92,06 mph | 148,16 kmh |
| 90 Knots | 103,57 mph | 166,68 kmh |
| 100 Knots | 115,08 mph | 185,20 kmh |
| 110 Knots | 126,59 mph | 203,72 kmh |
| 120 Knots | 138,09 mph | 222,24 kmh |
| 130 Knots | 149,60 mph | 240,76 kmh |
| 140 Knots | 161,11 mph | 259,28 kmh |
| 150 Knots | 172,62 mph | 277,80 kmh |
| 160 Knots | 184,12 mph | 296,32 kmh |
| 170 Knots | 195,63 mph | 314,84 kmh |
| 180 Knots | 207,14 mph | 333,36 kmh |
| 190 Knots | 218,65 mph | 351,88 kmh |
| 200 Knots | 230,16 mph | 370,40 kmh |
Note: These conversions are approximate and based on the conversion factor of 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KMH.
Conclusion
Knots, a unit of speed deeply rooted in maritime and aviation history, remain a crucial measurement for navigating the seas and skies. By understanding how knots compare to miles and kilometers per hour, one can better appreciate the precision and tradition behind this unit of speed. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a pilot, or simply curious about nautical terms, knowing about knots is an essential part of maritime and aviation knowledge.
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