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The Knots to KM conversion is used to convert speed or distance measurements from nautical miles (knots) to 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: The conversion factor 1.852 is based on the international definition of a nautical mile as exactly 1,852 meters.
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 applications or international standardization.
Tips: Enter the value in knots (nautical miles per hour for speed, or nautical miles for distance). The calculator will automatically convert to kilometers or kilometers per hour.
Q1: What is the difference between a knot and a nautical mile?
A: A knot is a unit of speed (1 nautical mile per hour), while a nautical mile is a unit of distance. One knot equals one nautical mile per hour.
Q2: Why is the conversion factor 1.852?
A: This is based on the international definition where one nautical mile equals exactly 1,852 meters, which is approximately one minute of latitude along any meridian.
Q3: When is this conversion most commonly used?
A: Primarily in maritime navigation, aviation weather reports, oceanography, and international shipping logistics.
Q4: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion is exact since 1 nautical mile is defined as exactly 1,852 meters by international agreement.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for both speed and distance conversions?
A: Yes, the same conversion factor applies whether you're converting nautical miles to kilometers (distance) or knots to km/h (speed).