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Top 10 Largest Countries in the World – List, Name, Location & Biggest Country

Madhavi Gaur July 05, 2024 04:00 55860 0

Top 10 Largest Countries in the World Complete list along with Land Area and Geographical features is given here. Check out the list of Top 10 Largest Countries in the World.

Top 10 Largest Countries in the World – List, Name, Location & Biggest Country

Top 10 Largest Countries in the World covers roughly half of the land area of the Earth. Imagine a world map stretching far and wide. Half of it is occupied by the Top 10 Largest countries in the World.

The combined land area of the top 10 largest countries changes based on factors such as borders, territorial disputes, and land reclamation. But as a rough estimate, the top 10 largest countries typically account for around 49-50% of the Earth’s total land area.

Let us have a look at the List of Top 10 Largest Countries in the World, along with History, Land Area and Geographical features of every Top 10 country. The map of every Top 10 Largest country of the World is also given.

Largest Countries in the World and the Landscape

Top 10 Biggest Country in the World: Earth, the familiar planet we call home, spans an impressive surface area of 510,072,000 km². When compared to other celestial bodies, Earth is relatively small, similar in size to an average sunspot. In comparison to neighboring planets, Earth is about twice the size of Mars and slightly larger than Venus. The land coverage on Earth constitutes approximately 29.2% of its total surface area, amounting to 149 million km², while the remaining 70.8% is covered by water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs, and rivers.

In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the fascinating history, land areas, and remarkable geographical features of each of these top 10 largest countries in the World.

Which is the largest country in the world? 

Russia is the largest country in the World with a geographical area of 17,098,242 square kilometres.
It is important to note that the countries with the most substantial landmasses do not necessarily have the highest population densities. Factors such as extreme climates and challenging terrains in countries like Russia and Canada limit human habitation over large parts of their territories. The three most populous countries globally, namely China, the United States, and India, rank fourth, third, and seventh in terms of total land area, respectively.

The total area of any region or country is the sum of its land area and the area covered by water bodies like lakes, reservoirs, and rivers.

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How to Calculate the area of any country?

The three measurements of area provided are as follows to calculate Largest Country in the World:

  1. Total Area: This includes the combined land and water areas within international boundaries and coastlines.
  2. Land Area: This accounts for all land within international boundaries and coastlines, excluding water areas.
  3. Water Area: This represents the sum of surface areas of all inland water bodies, including lakes, reservoirs, and rivers, within international boundaries and coastlines. Coastal internal waters may be included, while territorial seas, contiguous zones, and exclusive economic zones are generally excluded unless otherwise specified.

List of Top 10 Largest Country in the World

The world is home to a diverse array of countries, each with its unique cultural heritage, landscapes, and geographical features. Among them, the top 10 largest countries stand out as vast and expansive territories, offering a breathtaking tapestry of history and geography.

The boundaries of the world are in a constant state of flux, as the Earth remains a dynamic planet, undergoing changes both internally and externally. A significant portion of the Earth’s surface, approximately 71%, is covered by water, while the remaining 29% is comprised of landmass. Within this land area, there are 198 countries, each with its own specific boundaries that delineate its geographical extent. As of the data collected until the end of the year 2019, the following list presents the top 10 countries in terms of their land area.

The table below contains the List of Top 10 Largest Country in the World, arranged in accordance to their geographical area:

List of Top 10 Largest Country in the World
Rank Country Geographical Area (square kilometres)
1 Russia 17,098,242
2 Canada 9,984,670
3 China 9,596,961
4 United States 9,525,067
5 Brazil 8,515,767
6 Australia 7,692,024
7 India 3,287,263
8 Argentina 2,780,400
9 Kazakhstan 2,724,900
10 Algeria 2,381,741

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1. Largest Country in the World: Russia

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the largest country in the World, Russia:

History: Russia, officially known as the Russian Federation, boasts a rich and complex history that spans centuries. From the early medieval period to the rise of the Russian Empire and the Soviet era, the country has seen significant political, social, and cultural transformations.

Land Area: Covering a staggering 17,098,242 sq. km, Russia holds the title of the largest country in the world. Its vast landmass stretches across two continents, Europe and Asia, with a land area of 16,376,870 sq. km, accounting for approximately 11% of the Earth’s total land area.

  • It’s nearly twice as large as Canada, and makes up for roughly 11 per cent of the Earth’s total landmass. Due to permafrost, over 60 per cent of Russia is uninhabitable.
  • Russia is a sparsely populated nation with a population of just under 145 million.

Geographical Features: Russia’s diverse geography features vast plains, expansive forests, towering mountain ranges, and the world’s deepest freshwater lake, Lake Baikal. The country’s northern regions are characterized by Arctic tundra, while the southern regions display subtropical climates.

Largest Countries in the World: Russia
Largest Countries in the World: Russia

2. Largest Countries in the World: Canada

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the second largest country in the World, Canada:

History: Canada’s history is intertwined with Indigenous cultures, European exploration, and colonial settlement. The nation evolved into a confederation in 1867, gradually gaining independence from British rule.

Land Area: Canada ranks as the second-largest country globally, encompassing an area of 9,984,670 sq. km. Its vast territory is known for its rugged wilderness and untouched natural landscapes.

Geographical Features: Canada boasts stunning landscapes, including the majestic Rocky Mountains, the vast Canadian Shield, pristine lakes, and expansive forests. The country is home to Niagara Falls, has extensive forests full of bears, wolves, and mountain lions, bison in its prairies, and boasts the longest coastline in the world (this is split across over 52 thousand islands). Lake Superior, Huron, and Great Bear Lake make up just a few of up to 2 million lakes in Canada.

 

 

Largest Countries in the World: Canada
2nd Largest Country in the World: Canada

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3. Largest Countries in the World: United States

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the third largest country in the World, United States:

History: The United States has a diverse history, from the early Native American civilizations to European colonization, the American Revolution, and its growth as a global superpower.

Land Area: The United States covers an extensive area of 9,631,418 sq. km, making it the third-largest country in the world. It spans various climate zones, from arctic regions in Alaska to tropical climates in Hawaii.

Geographical Features: The country boasts diverse landscapes, including the vast Great Plains, the iconic Grand Canyon, towering mountain ranges like the Rockies and the Appalachians, and the fertile Mississippi River Valley.

  • Estimated population of USA is just under 340 million people.
Largest Countries in the World: United States
3rd Largest Country in the World:  United States

4. Largest Countries in the World: China

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the fourth largest country in the World, China:

History: China’s history dates back thousands of years, with a rich cultural heritage marked by dynastic rule, significant inventions, and a legacy of art, literature, and philosophy.

Land Area: China ranks as the fourth-largest country, covering 9,596,961 sq. km.  China is the largest country fully within Asia.  It is the second largest country in the world based on its population. According to the UN, China has an estimated population of just over 1.425 billion.

Geographical Features: China’s geography is diverse, with vast plateaus like the Tibetan Plateau, fertile river valleys like the Yangtze, and the iconic Great Wall, an ancient architectural wonder.

 

Largest Countries in the World: China
4th Largest Country in the World: China

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5. Largest Countries in the World: Brazil

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the fifth largest country in the World, Brazil:

History: Brazil’s history is shaped by indigenous cultures, European colonization, and the legacy of the Portuguese empire. It gained independence from Portugal in 1822.

Land Area: Brazil covers 8,515,767 sq. km, making it the fifth-largest country in the world. It is renowned for its Amazon rainforest, which houses a significant portion of the world’s biodiversity.

Geographical Features: The country is known for its diverse ecosystems, including the Amazon Basin, the Pantanal wetlands, the Atlantic Forest, and iconic landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro.

  • Just over 216.35 million people live in Brazil, making it the most populous country in the continent of South America.
Largest Countries in the World: Brazil
5th Largest Country in the World: Brazil

6. Largest Countries in the World: Australia

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the sixth largest country in the World, Australia:

History: Australia’s history is marked by Indigenous cultures dating back thousands of years, followed by British colonization and the formation of a modern nation.

Land Area: Australia spans 7,692,024 sq. km, making it the sixth-largest country globally. It is the world’s smallest continent and the largest island.

Geographical Features: Australia’s unique geography includes the vast Outback, stunning coastal regions, the Great Barrier Reef – the world’s largest coral reef system, and iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House.

 

 

Largest Countries in the World: Australia
6th Largest Country in the World: Australia

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7. Largest Countries in the World: India

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the seventh largest country in the World, India:

History: India’s history is one of the world’s oldest, with a legacy of ancient civilizations, kingdoms, and the rich tapestry of cultural and religious diversity.

Land Area: India covers 3,287,263 sq. km, making it the seventh-largest country in the world. It is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from the Himalayan mountain ranges to the coastal plains.

Geographical Features: India’s geographical diversity includes the fertile Gangetic plains, the Thar Desert, the Western Ghats, and the beautiful backwaters of Kerala.

  • With an estimated population of nearly 1.43 billion, India is the most densely populated country on this list and has the largest population on Earth in 2023.

7th Largest Country in the World: India

8. Largest Countries in the World: Argentina

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the eighth largest country in the World, Argentina:

History: Argentina’s history reflects a blend of indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and periods of political and economic turmoil.

Land Area: Covering 2,780,400 sq. km, Argentina ranks as the eighth-largest country in the world. It spans diverse landscapes, from the Pampas grasslands to the Andes mountains.

Geographical Features: Argentina is renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders, including the Iguazu Falls, the Perito Moreno Glacier, and the beautiful wine regions in Mendoza.

  • With an estimated population of around 45.75 million, Argentina is a nation filled with stunning scenery and a 4,989km coastline.
Largest Countries in the World: Argentina
8th Largest Country in the World: Argentina

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9. Largest Countries in the World: Kazakhstan

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the ninth largest country in the World, Kazakhstan:

History: Kazakhstan’s history is intertwined with the rise and fall of various empires and the legacy of the Silk Road.

Land Area: Kazakhstan covers 2,724,900 sq. km, making it the ninth-largest country in the world. Its vast territory is characterized by vast steppes, deserts, and the majestic Altai Mountains.

Geographical Features: The country’s geography includes the Caspian Sea, the Aral Sea, and the stunning Charyn Canyon, reminiscent of the Grand Canyon.

  • With an estimated population of just under 19.6 million, Kazakhstan is one of the more sparsely populated nations.
  • Kazakh Steppe is a famous part of the world filled with Bronze Age petroglyphs, mountains, canyons, and more. It’s also where many missions into space are launched, including the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

Top 10 Largest Countries in the World

9th Largest Country in the World: Kazakhstan

10. Largest Countries in the World: Algeria

Let us have look at the History, Land Area and Geographical features of the tenth largest country in the World, Algeria:

History: Algeria’s history dates back to ancient times, with a blend of indigenous cultures, Berber influences, and the legacy of Arab and Ottoman rule.

Land Area: Algeria spans 2,381,741 sq. km, making it the tenth-largest country globally. It is located in North Africa, serving as a gateway to the continent.

Geographical Features: Algeria’s geography is characterized by the Sahara Desert, the majestic Ahaggar Mountains, and a diverse coastline along the Mediterranean Sea.

  • With a population of around 45.5 million, Algeria is famous for its Mediterranean climate and Saharan deserts, including Tassili n’Ajjer, which is noted for its rich concentrations of rock art, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

The top 10 largest countries in the world encompass vast histories, diverse landscapes, and unique geographical features that make them an awe-inspiring tapestry of human civilization and natural wonders. Exploring these countries offers a glimpse into the rich heritage and breathtaking beauty that our world has to offer.

Top 10 Largest Countries in the World

10th Largest Country in the World: Algeria

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Top 10 Largest Countries in the World: Conclusion

In conclusion, our exploration of the top 10 largest countries in the world reveals a staggering display of geographical diversity and expansive territories. From the vast and enigmatic landscapes of Russia, to the breathtaking expanse of Canada’s wilderness, and the rich cultural tapestry of China, each of these countries stands as a testament to the boundless diversity our planet has to offer. Spanning continents and encompassing a myriad of climates, these nations host a wealth of natural resources, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant civilizations.

As they continue to shape global politics, economics, and culture, their immense size and influence underscore the significance of understanding and appreciating the diversity and complexity of our world. As we embark on a journey of exploration and cooperation, let us recognize the richness and challenges that these colossal nations bring, inspiring us to seek unity amidst diversity and work together for a better, interconnected future.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The top ten largest countries on Earth, ranked by their total area, are Russia, Canada, China, the United States, Brazil, Australia, India, Argentina, Kazakhstan, and Algeria. Together, these nations cover more than 55% of the Earth's land area, making them a substantial portion of the world's surface.

The ten countries with the largest population are as follows: China, India, United States, Indonesia, Pakistan, Brazil, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Russia and Mexico.

Vatican City holds the title of the smallest country globally, spanning only 0.49 square kilometers (0.19 square miles) in land area. This independent state is enveloped by Rome and is not the sole small country situated within Italy.

The biggest country in Asia by land area is Russia. A significant portion of Russia's territory lies in Asia, making it the largest country on the Asian continent and the largest country in the world overall.

India is the 7th largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 3.29 million square kilometres. It is located in South Asia and is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and large population.
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