Question 1

What is the Beaufort scale?

Accepted Answer

A 0-12 scale measuring wind speed by observable effects. 0 = calm, 6 = strong breeze, 12 = hurricane force (>118 kph).

Question 2

What Beaufort number is dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Force 8+ (gale, 62-74 kph) makes walking difficult. Force 10+ (storm) causes structural damage. Force 12 is hurricane.

Question 3

What's the fastest speed possible?

Accepted Answer

The speed of light (299,792,458 m/s or about 670 million mph) is the universal speed limit. Nothing with mass can reach it.

Question 4

Why do pilots and sailors use knots?

Accepted Answer

One knot = one nautical mile per hour. Nautical miles relate directly to Earth's latitude (1 nm = 1 minute of latitude), simplifying navigation.

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