How Big Is Russia Compared To The World? A Comprehensive Comparison

Russia, the world’s largest country, spans across two continents. This article from COMPARE.EDU.VN provides a detailed comparison of Russia’s size with other countries and continents, and explores its global significance by offering geographical, demographic, and economic insights. Discover the colossal scale of Russia and how it measures up against the rest of the planet, impacting geopolitics, trade, and cultural exchange.

1. What Is the Total Area of Russia?

Russia’s total area is approximately 17,098,246 square kilometers (6,601,668 square miles), making it the largest country in the world. This vast expanse covers roughly 11% of the Earth’s total landmass.

To fully understand the immensity of Russia, we need to dive into its geographical and statistical details, compare it with other significant entities, and explore the implications of its size. Let’s examine various facets of Russia’s dimensions.

1.1. Geographical Overview

Russia extends across northern Asia and eastern Europe, encompassing nine different time zones. Its diverse landscape includes tundra, forests, steppes, and mountains.

Eastern Extent: From Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea to the Bering Strait near Alaska.
Southern Extent: Bordering countries like Kazakhstan, China, and Mongolia.

The diverse terrain significantly impacts Russia’s climate, natural resources, and population distribution. The Ural Mountains are often considered the natural division between Europe and Asia within Russia.

1.2. Statistical Breakdown

Here’s a more statistical breakdown of Russia’s area compared with the world.

Total Area: 17,098,246 km² (6,601,668 sq mi)
Land Area: 16,376,870 km² (6,323,142 sq mi)
Water Area: Approximately 720,000 km² (277,993 sq mi), including lakes, rivers, and reservoirs.
Coastline: 37,653 km (23,396 miles)

1.3. Russia Compared to Other Countries

To put Russia’s size into perspective, here’s how it compares to other large countries:

Country	Total Area (km²)	Percentage of Russia’s Area
Russia	17,098,246	100%
Canada	9,984,670	58.4%
China	9,706,961	56.8%
United States	9,372,610	54.8%
Brazil	8,515,767	49.8%
Australia	7,692,024	45.0%

Russia is nearly twice the size of Canada, the second-largest country, and significantly larger than the United States, China, and Brazil.

2. How Does Russia Compare to Continents?

Comparing Russia to entire continents provides another way to grasp its massive scale.

2.1. Russia vs. Europe

Europe’s total area is approximately 10,180,000 square kilometers (3,930,000 square miles). This means Russia is about 1.7 times larger than the entire continent of Europe.

Geographical Overlap: A significant portion of Russia lies within Europe, particularly its western regions, including major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg.
European Russia: This part alone could be considered one of the largest countries in Europe if it were a separate nation.

2.2. Russia vs. Antarctica

Antarctica, the southernmost continent, has an area of about 14,200,000 square kilometers (5,500,000 square miles). While Antarctica is smaller than Russia, it’s mostly covered in ice.

Ice Coverage: Antarctica’s size fluctuates due to seasonal ice melt, but its landmass remains smaller than Russia’s.
Inhabitable Land: Russia has a substantial amount of habitable land, unlike Antarctica, which is primarily a research base.

2.3. Russia vs. Australia

Australia, often called the “island continent,” covers approximately 7,692,024 square kilometers (2,969,906 square miles). Russia is more than twice the size of Australia.

Comparison: Russia’s area is roughly 2.2 times that of Australia.
Population Distribution: Despite its vast size, Australia’s population is concentrated along the coast, whereas Russia’s population is spread across its European part and southern Siberia.

2.4. Russia vs. South America

South America has a total area of about 17,840,000 square kilometers (6,890,000 square miles). Russia is slightly smaller than the entire continent of South America.

Land Coverage: South America marginally edges out Russia in total area.
Diversity: Both regions boast significant biodiversity, but in different climates and terrains.

3. What Percentage of the World’s Landmass Does Russia Cover?

Russia covers approximately 11% of the world’s total landmass, which is about 148,940,000 square kilometers (57,506,032 square miles). This significant proportion underscores Russia’s geopolitical influence and control over resources.

3.1. Global Context

Land Distribution: With 11% of the world’s land, Russia’s control over this land has significant implications for global trade, resource management, and geopolitical strategies.
Resource Rich: The country is rich in natural resources, including oil, natural gas, timber, and minerals, making its landmass economically invaluable.

3.2. Implications of Size

Russia’s vast size has various implications:

Geopolitical Influence: Allows Russia to exert considerable influence in international affairs.
Resource Control: Control over vast natural resources provides economic leverage.
Military Strategy: Large territory offers strategic depth for defense.
Cultural Diversity: A wide array of ethnic groups and cultures exist within Russia’s borders.

3.3. Environmental Impact

The environmental implications of Russia’s size are substantial.

Carbon Sink: Russia’s forests act as a major carbon sink, absorbing significant amounts of CO2.
Environmental Challenges: Large-scale industrial activities and resource extraction pose environmental challenges, including pollution and deforestation.
Climate Change: The effects of climate change are particularly evident in Russia’s Arctic regions, where melting permafrost threatens infrastructure and ecosystems.

4. How Does Russia’s Size Affect Its Population Density?

Despite being the largest country, Russia has a relatively low population density due to its vast, sparsely populated areas.

4.1. Population Statistics

Total Population: Approximately 146 million people.
Population Density: About 8.5 people per square kilometer (22 people per square mile).

4.2. Regional Disparities

Population density varies significantly across Russia.

European Russia: Densely populated, especially around Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Siberia: Sparsely populated due to harsh climate and remote locations.
Urban vs. Rural: Most of the population is concentrated in urban centers, leaving rural areas sparsely inhabited.

4.3. Impact on Infrastructure

Low population density poses challenges for infrastructure development.

Transportation: Maintaining transportation networks across vast distances is costly and complex.
Communication: Providing reliable communication services to remote areas is difficult.
Healthcare: Delivering healthcare services to sparsely populated regions requires innovative solutions like mobile clinics and telemedicine.

5. What Are the Longest Distances Within Russia?

Understanding the distances within Russia highlights its vastness and the challenges of traversing it.

5.1. East to West

The distance from Russia’s westernmost point (Kaliningrad) to its easternmost point (Big Diomede Island) is approximately 8,000 kilometers (4,971 miles).

Trans-Siberian Railway: The world’s longest railway line, spans much of this distance, connecting Moscow with Vladivostok.
Time Zones: Crossing this distance involves traversing nine time zones, illustrating the logistical complexities of managing such a vast territory.

5.2. North to South

The distance from Russia’s northernmost point (Franz Josef Land) to its southernmost point (near the Caucasus Mountains) is about 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles).

Climate Zones: This north-south distance encompasses multiple climate zones, from Arctic tundra to subtropical regions.
Agricultural Viability: The variety of climate zones affects agricultural practices and land use across the country.

5.3. Travel Challenges

Traveling across Russia presents significant challenges:

Infrastructure Limitations: Road networks are limited in many areas, making air travel or railways essential for long-distance journeys.
Extreme Weather: Harsh winters and remote locations can complicate travel plans.
Logistical Planning: Extensive planning is necessary for any long-distance travel within Russia.

6. How Does Russia Compare to the Size of the United States?

Comparing Russia to the United States provides a familiar reference point for many readers.

6.1. Area Comparison

The United States has a total area of approximately 9,372,610 square kilometers (3,618,783 square miles). Russia is about 1.8 times larger than the United States.

Size Difference: Russia is significantly larger, providing more land for resources, agriculture, and strategic depth.
Geographic Spread: The U.S. spans six time zones, whereas Russia spans nine, further emphasizing its extensive east-west reach.

6.2. Population Distribution

The U.S. has a higher population density than Russia.

U.S. Population: Approximately 331 million people.
Density: The U.S. has a more evenly distributed population compared to Russia, where large areas remain sparsely populated.

6.3. Economic Impact

Both countries leverage their size and resources differently.

Economic Diversification: The U.S. has a more diversified economy, while Russia relies heavily on natural resource exports.
Trade Influence: Both countries exert significant influence in global trade due to their economic size and resource availability.

7. What Are Some Little-Known Facts About Russia’s Size?

Delving into lesser-known facts provides additional insights into Russia’s unique characteristics.

7.1. Internal Water Bodies

Russia contains some of the world’s largest lakes and rivers.

Lake Baikal: The world’s deepest and oldest lake, holding about 20% of the world’s fresh water.
Volga River: The longest river in Europe, flowing entirely within Russia.

7.2. Forest Coverage

Russia has the largest forest area in the world.

Taiga: The Russian taiga, or boreal forest, covers a vast area and is a crucial carbon sink.
Timber Industry: The timber industry plays a significant role in the Russian economy.

7.3. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)

Russia has one of the largest Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ).

Maritime Territory: EEZ extends 200 nautical miles from its coast, granting Russia exclusive rights over marine resources.
Fishing and Exploration: This area is vital for fishing, mineral exploration, and energy production.

8. How Does Russia’s Size Impact Its Geopolitical Role?

Russia’s immense size significantly shapes its geopolitical influence and international relations.

8.1. Strategic Depth

Defense: Russia’s vast territory provides strategic depth, making it difficult for any potential adversary to launch a successful invasion.
Historical Significance: This strategic depth has been a factor in numerous historical conflicts, including World War II.

8.2. Border Control

Extensive Borders: Russia shares borders with 16 sovereign states, requiring significant resources for border control and security.
Diplomatic Relations: Maintaining stable relations with neighboring countries is a key foreign policy objective.

8.3. Arctic Influence

Arctic Territory: A significant portion of Russia lies within the Arctic Circle, giving it a strong interest in Arctic affairs.
Resource Competition: Russia is actively involved in the competition for Arctic resources and the development of the Northern Sea Route.

9. How Does Climate Change Affect Russia’s Vast Landmass?

Climate change presents both challenges and opportunities for Russia.

9.1. Melting Permafrost

Infrastructure Damage: Melting permafrost threatens infrastructure, including buildings, pipelines, and roads, built on frozen ground.
Methane Release: Thawing permafrost releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, accelerating climate change.

9.2. Increased Agricultural Potential

Longer Growing Seasons: Warmer temperatures may extend growing seasons in some regions, potentially increasing agricultural productivity.
New Land Use: Areas previously unsuitable for agriculture may become viable for crop cultivation.

9.3. Arctic Shipping Routes

Northern Sea Route: The melting of Arctic ice opens up the Northern Sea Route, offering a shorter shipping route between Europe and Asia.
Economic Benefits: This route could bring significant economic benefits to Russia through transit fees and resource exploitation.

10. What Are the Major Geographical Regions Within Russia?

Understanding the different geographical regions within Russia is essential for appreciating its diversity.

10.1. European Russia

Location: Western part of Russia, west of the Ural Mountains.
Key Features: Includes major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, fertile plains, and developed infrastructure.

10.2. Siberia

Location: Vast region extending from the Ural Mountains to the Pacific Ocean.
Key Features: Known for its harsh climate, taiga forests, and abundant natural resources.

10.3. Russian Far East

Location: Easternmost part of Russia, bordering the Pacific Ocean.
Key Features: Includes volcanoes, mountains, and coastal regions, with significant mineral deposits.

10.4. Ural Mountains

Location: Mountain range dividing Europe and Asia.
Key Features: Rich in minerals, serves as a natural boundary, and is a site of industrial activity.

10.5. Caucasus Region

Location: Southern Russia, bordering the Caucasus Mountains.
Key Features: Diverse ethnic groups, mountainous terrain, and strategic importance.

FAQ Section

1. How much bigger is Russia than Canada?

Russia is about 1.7 times larger than Canada. Russia’s area is approximately 17,098,246 square kilometers, while Canada’s is about 9,984,670 square kilometers.

2. Can you fit Europe inside Russia?

Yes, you can fit Europe inside Russia. Russia is about 1.7 times larger than the entire continent of Europe, which has an area of approximately 10,180,000 square kilometers.

3. What percentage of Asia is Russia?

Russia covers a significant portion of Asia. Approximately 30% of the Asian continent is part of Russia, primarily Siberia and the Russian Far East.

4. How does Russia compare to the size of Africa?

Africa is significantly larger than Russia. Africa has a total area of about 30.37 million square kilometers, making it roughly 1.8 times larger than Russia.

5. What is the population density of Russia compared to other countries?

Russia has a low population density of about 8.5 people per square kilometer. In contrast, countries like the Netherlands have a density of over 500 people per square kilometer.

6. How many time zones does Russia have?

Russia spans 11 time zones, although it officially uses only 9 time zones to simplify administration and logistics.

7. What are the main natural resources found in Russia?

Russia is rich in natural resources, including oil, natural gas, timber, diamonds, and various minerals like nickel, iron ore, and aluminum.

8. What challenges does Russia face due to its size?

Russia faces challenges related to infrastructure development, border control, regional disparities in population density, and the logistical complexities of managing a vast territory.

9. How does climate change impact Russia?

Climate change impacts Russia through melting permafrost, which damages infrastructure and releases greenhouse gases. However, it also presents opportunities such as longer growing seasons and the opening of Arctic shipping routes.

10. What are the major geographical regions in Russia?

The major geographical regions include European Russia, Siberia, the Russian Far East, the Ural Mountains, and the Caucasus region, each with unique features and characteristics.

Russia’s colossal size compared to the rest of the world has profound implications for its geography, demographics, economy, and geopolitical influence. Understanding these aspects provides valuable insight into Russia’s role on the global stage.

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