Which Is Bigger: Russia or Africa?
When it comes to size, Russia and Africa are two massive land masses that dominate the world map. Both regions are known for their vast territories and diverse landscapes, but which one is truly bigger? In this article, we will compare the sizes of Russia and Africa, exploring their geographical features and providing answers to some frequently asked questions.
Russia: The Largest Country in the World
Russia is the largest country on Earth, spanning across two continents, Europe and Asia. With a total area of approximately 17.1 million square kilometers, it covers about one-eighth of the Earth’s inhabited land area. It stretches from the Baltic Sea in the west to the Pacific Ocean in the east, and from the Arctic Ocean in the north to the borders of Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China, and North Korea in the south.
Russia’s vast territory encompasses diverse landscapes, including vast plains, mountain ranges, frozen tundra, and dense forests. Some of its notable geographical features include the Ural Mountains, the Siberian Plateau, the Caspian Sea, and Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world.
Africa: The Second Largest Continent
Africa, on the other hand, is the second largest continent in terms of both land area and population. It covers approximately 30.37 million square kilometers, accounting for about 20% of the Earth’s total land area. Africa is located primarily in the Eastern Hemisphere and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
The continent of Africa boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from arid deserts like the Sahara, to lush rainforests like the Congo Basin, and expansive savannas such as the Serengeti. It is also home to various iconic geographical features, including the Nile River, the Sahara Desert, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Victoria Falls.
FAQs:
1. Is Russia bigger than Africa in terms of land area?
No, Africa is larger than Russia in terms of land area. Africa covers approximately 30.37 million square kilometers, while Russia spans around 17.1 million square kilometers.
2. Which country is the largest in Africa?
The largest country in Africa is Algeria, which covers an area of about 2.38 million square kilometers.
3. Is Russia larger than Africa in terms of population?
No, Africa has a larger population compared to Russia. As of 2021, Africa’s population is estimated to be over 1.3 billion, while Russia’s population is around 145 million.
4. Which country is the most populous in Africa?
The most populous country in Africa is Nigeria, with a population of over 211 million people.
5. Can you compare the sizes of Russia and Africa using a map?
Yes, you can compare the sizes of Russia and Africa using a map. By superimposing the two regions, you will see that Africa is significantly larger than Russia.
6. What is the distance between the farthest points in Russia and Africa?
The distance between the farthest points in Russia, from the westernmost point to the easternmost point, is approximately 9,000 kilometers. In Africa, the distance between the northernmost and southernmost points is about 8,000 kilometers.
7. Which continent has a greater coastline, Russia or Africa?
Africa has a greater coastline compared to Russia. Africa’s coastline stretches for about 30,500 kilometers, while Russia’s coastline is approximately 37,653 kilometers long.
In conclusion, while Russia is the largest country in the world, Africa takes the crown as the second largest continent. Africa’s vast land area and diverse landscapes make it an awe-inspiring region, while Russia’s expansive territory across Europe and Asia is a testament to its grandeur. Both regions have their unique geographical features, attracting travelers and adventurers from all around the globe.