Knots to mph Converter
If you’re wondering how much a knot is, you’re in the right place – our knots to mph converter can help answer this question.
Enter the value into the calculator, and you’ll instantly get the result – converted to mph.
How many mph is a knot?
One knot is equal to approximately 1.15078 miles per hour (mph). So, if you want to convert knots to mph, you can multiply the number of knots by 1.15078.
For example, 10 knots would be about 11.51 mph.
Why do ships use knots instead of mph?
Ships use knots instead of miles per hour (mph) because knots are based on nautical miles, which are more practical for navigation at sea. Here’s why:
- Relevance to Geography: A nautical mile is directly related to the Earth’s latitude and longitude. One nautical mile equals one minute of latitude (1/60th of a degree) along any meridian. This makes it a more accurate and consistent unit for navigating across the curved surface of the Earth, which is essential for ships and aircraft.
- Universal Standard: Knots provide a standard measurement for maritime and aviation purposes worldwide. Since ships and planes often travel between countries, using a universal unit like knots simplifies communication and reduces errors.
- Historical Roots: The term “knot” comes from an old method of measuring a ship’s speed using a “log line” with knots tied at regular intervals. The number of knots that passed overboard in a specific time indicated the ship’s speed. This practice led to the modern use of the term.
So, knots are more practical for navigating on water because they align with the global coordinate system and provide a universal standard for marine and aerial travel.
