Smallest Continent in the World, Check the Name and Interesting Facts

Among the seven continents of the world, Australia stands as the smallest continent of the world in terms of area with an area of 7.7 million square kilometers, followed by Europe and Antarctica. Check the list of smallest continents of the world by area.

Akansha Arora Published On December 14th, 2024

In a world with large land areas and vast territories, Australia stands out as the smallest continent, covering about 7.7 million square kilometers and having a population of 43 million people. This article will explore what makes Australia the smallest continent, focusing on its unique features and qualities.

World’s Smallest Continent

Australia is the smallest continent in the world, covering approximately 3 million square miles (8 million square kilometers). Despite its small size, it is both a country and a continent. With a population of over 25 million, it is one of the least populated continents, with only Antarctica having fewer people.

Australia is often referred to as part of a region called Oceania, which includes countries and islands like New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and several Pacific islands. However, when we talk about Australia as a continent, it includes the countries of Australia, Papua New Guinea and the island nation of New Zealand.

Australia’s Geographical Diversity

Australia’s smallest size does not diminish its geographical significance. It proudly boasts a diverse range of natural features, from towering mountains and winding rivers to expansive deserts and lush wetlands. The land is rich in natural minerals and resources, shaping its global trade relations. As a part of the Gondwana landmass, Australia carries the echoes of prehistoric times within its geological formations.

Intersecting facts about the Smallest Continent of the World: Australia

Here are some of the interesting facts about the smallest continent in the world, Australia:

Australia is the only continent entirely surrounded by the ocean.
The majority of countries present within the Australian continent are actually islands, underscoring the diverse array of cultures and ecosystems present.
Australia houses the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef in the Coral Sea.
Its coastal boundaries are striking with the Indian Ocean on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, contributing to its unique maritime influence.
Australia is the largest country that shares no land boundary with any other country.

List of Smallest Continents in the World by Area

Among the seven continents of the world, Australia stands as the smallest continent of the world in terms of area with an area of 7.7 million square kilometers, followed by Europe and Antarctica.

Here is the list of Smallest Continents in the World:

S. No.	Continent	Area (in million sq. km)	Area (in million sq. mi)	Population
1.	Australia	7.7	3	43 million
2.	Europe	9.9	3.8	746 million
3.	Antarctica	14.2	5.5	1,000-5,000 (seasonal)
4.	South America	17.8	6.9	431 million
5.	North America	24.5	9.4	369 million
6.	Africa	30	11.6	1.3 billion
7.	Asia	44.6	17.2	4.6 billion

FAQs

Which is the smallest continent in the world?

Among the seven continents of the world, Australia is the smallest continent, covering area of about 7.7 million sq. km and population of about 43 million.

Which is the second smallest continent in the world?

The second smallest continent in terms of area is Europe which covers an area of about 9.9 million sq. km and it is the smallest continent in terms of population.