How big is Australia compared to North America? This is a question that often sparks curiosity among people around the world. Australia, the smallest continent, and North America, the third largest continent, have distinct sizes and shapes that make them unique in their own ways. In this article, we will explore the size difference between these two continents and shed light on their geographical characteristics.
Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is the world’s sixth-largest country by land area. It spans approximately 7.69 million square kilometers (2.97 million square miles). The continent is located in the Southern Hemisphere and is bordered by the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Australia is known for its vast deserts, diverse wildlife, and unique flora and fauna.
On the other hand, North America is the third-largest continent, covering an area of about 24.71 million square kilometers (9.55 million square miles). It is situated in the Northern Hemisphere and is bordered by the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans. North America is home to the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and it boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a wide range of climates.
To put the size difference into perspective, Australia is roughly 3.2 times smaller than North America. In terms of land area, Australia is about one-third the size of North America. This means that if you were to place Australia on top of North America, it would not even cover the entire continent.
When comparing the two continents, it’s essential to consider not only the land area but also the population. Australia has a population of around 25 million people, while North America has a population of over 575 million. This makes North America significantly more populated than Australia.
Despite the vast size difference, both continents share some similarities. For instance, they both have large deserts—Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and North America’s Sahara Desert. Additionally, both continents have diverse ecosystems, with Australia being home to the kangaroo, koala, and numerous bird species, while North America is known for its diverse wildlife, including the bald eagle, grizzly bear, and bison.
In conclusion, Australia is significantly smaller than North America in terms of land area. However, both continents offer unique geographical features, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritages. Understanding the size difference between these two continents helps us appreciate the vastness of our planet and the incredible diversity it holds.
