Many people underestimate the sheer size of Africa. Often, the way we see the world mapped can be deceiving. Let's delve into a comparison of the sizes of Africa and America to better understand the scale of each.
Understanding the Size of Africa
Africa is the world's second-largest and second-most populous continent, second only to Asia. It covers approximately 30.3 million km2 (11.7 million square miles), including its adjacent islands. This accounts for 6% of Earth's total surface area and 20% of its land area.
The continent is surrounded by several major bodies of water. To the north lies the Mediterranean Sea, to the northeast the Isthmus of Suez and the Red Sea, to the southeast the Indian Ocean, and to the west the Atlantic Ocean. Africa also includes significant islands such as Madagascar and various archipelagos.
Why don't our maps show the true size of Africa? - What in the World podcast, BBC World Service
The Scope of America
When we speak of "America," we generally refer to the United States. The United States is a country located primarily in North America, comprising 50 states, a federal district, five major self-governing territories, and various possessions.
Visualizing the Difference
To truly grasp the size difference, consider the following:
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- The land area of Africa is significantly larger than that of the United States.
- Many countries could fit within the borders of Africa.
The map above illustrates how numerous countries, including the United States, can fit inside the continent of Africa. This is contrary to common perceptions influenced by traditional map projections.
Key Geographical Facts
Here's a table summarizing the key geographical facts:
| Continent/Country | Area (km²) | Area (sq miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Africa | 30.3 million | 11.7 million |
| United States | 9.8 million | 3.8 million |
As the data shows, Africa's area is more than three times the size of the United States.
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