In comparison to the Sahara desert, what is the size of the US?

Tourist Attractions

By Kristy Tolley

Understanding the scale

When it comes to understanding the size of different regions on Earth, it can be helpful to make comparisons. In this article, we will examine the size of the United States (US) in comparison to the Sahara desert. While these two areas are vastly different in terms of climate, geography, and population, exploring their differences can help us appreciate the diversity of our planet.

The Sahara desert: Size and characteristics

The Sahara desert is a vast expanse of land located in North Africa. It covers an area of approximately 3.6 million square miles, making it the third-largest desert in the world after Antarctica and the Arctic. The Sahara is characterized by its arid and barren landscape, with sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and sparse vegetation. The climate is extremely hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 130°F during the day and dropping to near freezing at night.

The United States: Geographical and climatic diversity

In contrast to the Sahara, the United States is a large and diverse country, covering an area of approximately 3.8 million square miles. The country stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and from the Canadian border in the north to the Mexican border in the south. The geography of the US is varied, with vast mountain ranges, rolling plains, deep valleys, and expansive coastlines. The country also has a diverse range of climates, from the frozen tundra of Alaska to the tropical heat of Florida.

Comparison of the Sahara and the US: Size and population

While the US and the Sahara are both vast regions, there are significant differences in terms of their population. The Sahara is sparsely populated, with only a few million people living in the region. In contrast, the US is home to over 330 million people, making it the third most populous country in the world. The population density of the US is much higher than that of the Sahara, with many large urban centers located throughout the country.

The size of the US: Land area and water resources

The land area of the US is slightly larger than the Sahara desert, but it is important to note that much of the US is habitable, while the Sahara is largely uninhabitable. The US has a vast network of rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, providing a significant source of freshwater for its population. The country also has access to abundant reserves of fossil fuels, making it a major player in the global energy industry.

The geography of the US: Mountains, rivers, and valleys

The US is blessed with a diverse range of geography, including towering mountain ranges such as the Rocky Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, deep river valleys like the Grand Canyon, and vast plains like the Great Plains. The country also has a long coastline, with access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Population density in the US: Urban versus rural areas

The population of the US is concentrated in urban areas, with over 80% of the population living in cities and suburbs. However, the country still has a significant rural population, with many small towns and farming communities located throughout the country.

The climate of the US: Variations across regions

The climate of the US varies significantly depending on the region. The Northeast experiences cold winters and mild summers, while the Southeast is hot and humid year-round. The Midwest has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, while the West Coast has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and dry summers.

The Sahara versus the US: Differences in climate and vegetation

The climate of the Sahara is characterized by extreme heat and aridity, with very little rainfall. The vegetation is sparse, with only a few drought-resistant plants adapted to the harsh conditions. In contrast, the US has a much more varied climate and vegetation, ranging from lush rainforests in the Pacific Northwest to the arid deserts of the Southwest.

The impact of human activity: Desertification and deforestation

Human activity has had a significant impact on both the Sahara and the US. In the Sahara, overgrazing and deforestation have led to desertification, creating vast areas of barren land. In the US, deforestation and urbanization have led to the loss of many natural habitats, threatening the biodiversity of the country.

Conclusion: Appreciating the diversity of the planet

By comparing the size and characteristics of the Sahara and the US, we can gain a greater appreciation for the diversity of our planet. While these two regions are vastly different, they both play a vital role in the global ecosystem. It is important that we work to protect these regions and preserve their natural beauty for future generations.

References: Sources of information and data used

  1. Sahara Desert, National Geographic,
  2. United States, Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/place/United-States
  3. US Census Bureau, https://www.census.gov/
  4. Climate of the United States, National Weather Service, https://www.weather.gov/jetstream/us_climate
  5. Desertification, United Nations Environment Programme,
  6. Deforestation in the United States, World Wildlife Fund,
Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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