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The Knots to Kilometers conversion is used to convert nautical speed measurements (knots) to metric distance measurements (kilometers). One knot equals one nautical mile per hour, and one nautical mile equals 1.852 kilometers.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: Since 1 nautical mile equals exactly 1.852 kilometers, multiplying knots by 1.852 converts nautical speed to kilometers.
Details: This conversion is essential for maritime navigation, aviation, meteorology, and international shipping where nautical measurements need to be converted to metric units for land-based calculations and reporting.
Tips: Enter the speed in knots (nautical miles per hour). The value must be non-negative. The calculator will instantly convert it to kilometers.
Q1: What exactly is a knot?
A: A knot is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour, approximately 1.15078 miles per hour or 1.852 kilometers per hour.
Q2: Why is the conversion factor 1.852?
A: This comes from the definition of a nautical mile, which is based on the Earth's circumference (1 nautical mile = 1 minute of latitude = 1/60 degree).
Q3: When is this conversion most commonly used?
A: Primarily in maritime navigation, aviation weather reports, and international shipping documentation where nautical units need metric conversion.
Q4: What's the difference between knots and kilometers per hour?
A: Knots measure speed in nautical miles per hour, while km/h measures speed in kilometers per hour. 1 knot = 1.852 km/h.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for distance conversion as well?
A: Yes, since knots represent nautical miles per hour, the same conversion factor applies to distance: nautical miles × 1.852 = kilometers.