Maps can sometimes be deceiving when trying to understand the true size of countries. Representing a three-dimensional world in two dimensions often distorts our perception of area. A more accurate method to compare countries is by examining their area, typically measured in square miles or square kilometers. Furthermore, distinguishing between land area and total area, which includes water bodies, is crucial for a precise comparison, especially when considering countries like Canada with its numerous lakes and rivers.
Russia definitively holds the title of the world’s largest country by total area, with Canada and the United States following respectively. This transcontinental nation, stretching across both Asia and Europe, boasts a staggering 17.1 million square kilometers. Remarkably, the majority of Russia’s expanse is land; territorial waters constitute only about 4% of its total area. In contrast, water covers approximately 9% of Canada’s surface. The sheer size of Russia is emphasized by its nine time zones and borders with 16 other countries.
When considering the top three largest countries globally, Russia, Canada, and the United States consistently occupy the leading positions according to World Atlas. The United States and China often compete for the third spot. Analyzing total surface area, encompassing both land and water, the United States measures approximately 9.8 million square kilometers, while China covers 9.6 million square kilometers. However, in terms of land area alone, China surpasses the U.S. by approximately 2%, according to World Atlas.
While Russia dwarfs most countries, and the US ranks as the third or fourth largest, it’s interesting to note the other end of the spectrum. Vatican City, located within Rome, Italy, is recognized as the world’s smallest country. This tiny sovereign state, the home of the Pope, covers less than half a square kilometer. Following Vatican City, Monaco and Nauru are the next smallest countries globally, as reported by World Atlas.
Focusing specifically on the size comparison between Russia and the U.S., the United States is roughly half the size of Russia in terms of landmass. NationMaster.com indicates that Russia is approximately 1.8 times larger than the United States. Despite its immense area, Russia’s population density is low; it is home to only about 2% of the world’s population. In contrast, the U.S. ranks as the third most populous nation globally, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, highlighting a stark difference in population distribution across these vast countries.
References:
- World Atlas: https://www.worldatlas.com/features/countries-by-area.html
- World Atlas: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-largest-countries-in-the-world-the-biggest-nations-as-determined-by-total-land-area.html
- history.com: https://www.history.com/news/what-is-the-smallest-country-in-the-world
- NationMaster.com: https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Russia/United-States/Geography/Area
- U.S Census Bureau: https://www.census.gov/popclock/
