How is a ship’s speed typically measured?

A ship's speed is typically measured in knots, which is a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour. This measurement is particularly useful in maritime and aviation contexts because it directly relates to navigation and the Earth's curvature.

Using knots allows for a standardized way to calculate distances over water, as nautical miles are based on the latitude and longitude system used in navigation. This is essential for sailors and pilots, as it provides an accurate method for determining how long it will take to reach a destination based on the vessel's speed.

Other units like miles per hour, kilometers per hour, or meters per second are more commonly used for land-based measurements and do not offer the same relevance in maritime navigation. The use of knots in maritime operations ensures consistency and clarity in communication regarding speed and travel times at sea.