Asia encompasses 49 countries and is the most populated continent, with approximately 60% of the Earth’s total population residing there.
Africa consists of 54 countries and is recognized as the hottest continent, hosting the world’s largest desert, the Sahara, which covers about 25% of Africa’s total land area.
North America is made up of 23 countries, with the United States being noted for having the world’s largest economy.
South America includes 12 countries and is home to the largest forest, the Amazon rainforest, which spans approximately 30% of South America’s total area.
Antarctica is the coldest continent, entirely covered in ice, and lacks permanent residents, except for scientists operating research stations.
Europe consists of 44 recognized sovereign states and is highly developed economically, with the European Union representing a significant economic and political union.
Australia, commonly referred to as a continent, is a single country and the least populated continent after Antarctica, with only about 0.33% of the Earth’s total population.
Continents by Area from Largest to Smallest
| # | Continent | Area (km²) | Area (mi²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asia | 44,579,000 | 17,212,000 |
| 2 | Africa | 30,370,000 | 11,730,000 |
| 3 | North America | 24,709,000 | 9,540,000 |
| 4 | South America | 17,840,000 | 6,890,000 |
| 5 | Antarctica | 14,200,000 | 5,500,000 |
| 6 | Europe | 10,180,000 | 3,930,000 |
| 7 | Australia | 7,692,000 | 2,970,000 |