105 LearnersLast updated on July 9th, 2025
Knots to MPH Conversion
We can measure speed using units like knots, miles per hour (mph), kilometers per hour (kph), or meters per second (m/s). Different units are used to measure different types of speed. A knot is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour, commonly used in maritime and aviation contexts. Miles per hour (mph) is a unit of speed typically used on roads and highways. Sometimes we need to change knots to mph to make it easier to understand speeds in a more familiar context. In this topic, we will learn how to convert knots to mph.
What is a Knot?
A knot is a unit of speed that is part of the nautical system, which is widely used in maritime and aviation industries for measuring speed. One knot is equal to one nautical mile per hour. The nautical mile is slightly longer than a standard mile, which is why knots are different from miles per hour. The symbol for knots is kn or kt, and it is commonly used in navigation and meteorology.
What is Miles Per Hour (MPH)?
Miles per hour (mph) is a unit of speed commonly used in the United States and the United Kingdom, especially for measuring vehicle speeds on roads and highways. One mile per hour is equal to the speed of traveling one mile in one hour. The symbol used for miles per hour is mph.
Knots to MPH Formula
To convert knots to mph, we use the following formula: 1 knot = 1.15078 mph MPH = So, to convert from knots to mph, you multiply the number of knots by 1.15078.
Conversely, to convert from mph to knots, you divide the number of mph by 1.15078.
How to Convert Knots to MPH?
Converting knots to miles per hour (mph) is simple using a standard conversion factor. Since 1 knot is equal to 1.15078 mph, we can convert knots to mph by multiplying the number of knots by 1.15078.
Steps to convert knots to mph: Write down the speed in knots. Multiply the value by 1.15078 to get the speed in mph. Formula: MPH =
Knots to MPH Conversion Chart
When we measure speeds, sometimes we use knots and sometimes we use miles per hour (mph). We use simple conversions to understand how much something in knots is in mph. Below is a chart that shows us the knots-to-mph conversions.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Knots to MPH Conversion
When converting knots to mph, people often make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to get a better understanding of the concepts of conversions.
Mistake 1
Using the wrong conversion factor
People get confused and use incorrect values for conversion, such as 1 instead of 1.15078.
Mistake 2
Rounding too soon
Some might round numbers too early while calculating, which can lead to incorrect results. For example, instead of writing 20 × 1.15078 = 23.0156, they might round it to 23.0, which is less precise.
Mistake 3
Misplacing decimal points
People get confused and place the decimal point incorrectly, which leads to improper values. For example, instead of writing the value for 50 knots as 57.539 mph, they write it as 575.39 mph.
Mistake 4
Incorrect use of formula
People get confused and use the incorrect formula. For example, instead of multiplying, they divide. To convert any value from knots to mph, we multiply knots by 1.15078, not divide.
Mistake 5
Misunderstanding the relationship between knots and mph
Some might think 1 knot equals 1 mph, but it actually equals approximately 1.15078 mph. Remember, knots and mph are different units of speed.
Knots to MPH Conversion Examples
Problem 1
Convert 30 knots to MPH
30 knots = 34.5234 mph
Explanation
We know the conversion factor: 1 knot = 1.15078 mph
Now, multiply 30 by the conversion factor: 30 × 1.15078 = 34.5234 mph.
Problem 2
Convert 15 knots to mph.
Solution: Converting 15 knots to mph gives us 17.2617 mph.
Explanation
Use the conversion factor: 1 knot = 1.15078 mph
15 × 1.15078 = 17.2617 mph
Problem 3
A boat travels at 25 knots. What is the speed in mph?
The speed of the boat in mph is 28.7695 mph.
Explanation
Convert 25 knots to mph: 25 knots = 25 × 1.15078 = 28.7695 mph.
Problem 4
The aircraft is flying at 120 knots. What is its speed in mph?
The speed in mph is 138.0936 mph.
Explanation
Convert 120 knots to mph: 120 knots = 120 × 1.15078 = 138.0936 mph.
Problem 5
Converting 60 knots to MPH
60 knots = 69.0468 mph
Explanation
Step 1: Use the conversion factor. 1 knot = 1.15078 mph
Step 2: Multiply 60 by 1.15078. 60 × 1.15078 = 69.0468 mph
FAQs on Knots to MPH
1.How many mph is 1 knot?
2.What is 45 knots in mph?
3.Is 5 knots fast?
4.How do I convert 100 knots to mph?
Important Glossaries for Knots to MPH
- Conversion: The process of changing one unit of measurement into another, such as knots to mph.
- Nautical Mile: A distance unit used in aviation and maritime, approximately equal to 1.15078 miles.
- Speed: The rate at which something moves or operates.
- Decimal: A number with whole and fractional parts separated by a point (e.g., 3.5).
- Aviation: The field involving aircraft operation, where speed is often measured in knots.
Seyed Ali Fathima S
About the Author
Seyed Ali Fathima S a math expert with nearly 5 years of experience as a math teacher. From an engineer to a math teacher, shows her passion for math and teaching. She is a calculator queen, who loves tables and she turns tables to puzzles and songs.
Fun Fact
: She has songs for each table which helps her to remember the tables
