1. What is Knots to Feet per Second Conversion?

The conversion from knots (KTS) to feet per second (FT/S) is a unit conversion used in aviation, maritime, and engineering applications to translate speed measurements between nautical and imperial units.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The conversion uses the formula:

Where:

• \( KTS \) — Speed in knots (nautical miles per hour)
• \( FT/S \) — Speed in feet per second
• \( 1.68781 \) — Conversion factor (exact value)

Explanation: One knot equals 1.68781 feet per second, based on the definition that one nautical mile equals 6,076 feet and one hour equals 3,600 seconds.

3. Importance of Speed Conversion

Details: This conversion is essential for aviation calculations, maritime navigation, aerodynamics, and situations where speed needs to be expressed in different measurement systems for compatibility with various instruments and standards.

4. Using the Converter

Tips: Enter the speed value in knots. The converter will automatically calculate the equivalent speed in feet per second. Values can be positive decimals or integers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 1.68781?
A: This factor comes from the definition: 1 knot = 1 nautical mile/hour = 6,076 feet / 3,600 seconds = 1.68781 ft/s.

Q2: What is a knot in simple terms?
A: One knot is one nautical mile per hour. A nautical mile is approximately 1.15078 statute miles or 1,852 meters.

Q3: Where is this conversion commonly used?
A: Primarily in aviation for airspeed calculations, maritime navigation, meteorology for wind speeds, and engineering applications involving fluid dynamics.

Q4: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion factor 1.68781 is exact based on the international definition of a nautical mile as 1,852 meters.

Q5: Can I convert back from feet per second to knots?
A: Yes, use the inverse formula: KTS = FT/S ÷ 1.68781 or KTS = FT/S × 0.592484.