Knot (speed measurement)

A knot is a unit of speed used primarily in maritime and aviation contexts, representing one nautical mile per hour. A nautical mile is approximately 1.15 miles or 1.85 kilometers, based on the Earth's circumference. When a vessel or aircraft travels at 10 knots, it covers about 10 nautical miles every hour. This measurement helps standardize speed across different regions and is especially useful for navigational accuracy over large distances. Essentially, the knot provides a consistent way to report how fast something is moving relative to the Earth's surface, facilitating precise navigation and safety.