World Geography for Lok Sewa Aayog Notes (Vishwa Bhugol)

World Geography for Lok Sewa Aayog Notes (Vishwa Bhugol) for Nasu, Kharidar & More Post

World Geography, or Vishwa Bhugol in Nepali, is a key subject for aspirants of the Lok Sewa Aayog exams, including positions such as Kharidar, Nasu, and Adhikrit. A deep understanding of geographical concepts not only enhances general knowledge but also prepares candidates for the questions that frequently appear in the Lok Sewa Aayog Notes. Whether you are preparing for Bank exams or other governmental positions, world geography is a vital component of the syllabus.

What is World Geography?

Geography is a fascinating and vital field that helps us understand the physical and human characteristics of our planet. It examines the Earth’s landscapes, environments, and the ways in which humans interact with their surroundings. Whether you’re studying the towering mountains or the vast oceans, geography offers insight into how the world works.

Origin and Meaning of the Word “Geography”

The term “geography” comes from the Greek words “geo,” meaning “earth,” and “graphein,” meaning “to describe.” Essentially, geography is the study of Earth, encompassing the physical features of the planet and the relationship between human societies and the environment.

Types of Geography

1. Physical Geography
Physical geography is concerned with the natural world. It studies the physical characteristics of the Earth, including rocks, soils, water bodies, plants, and climate. This branch of geography also analyzes natural processes, such as weather patterns, tectonic movements, and environmental changes over time.

2. Human Geography
Human geography, on the other hand, focuses on the interaction between humans and their environments. It studies human societies, their cultures, economies, and the impact of their actions on the environment. By analyzing how we use land, resources, and ecosystems, human geography offers a lens into societal development and sustainability.

Earth’s Shape and Surface Area

The Earth is nearly spherical in shape, but not perfectly so. Its slightly flattened poles give it an oblong shape, known as a geoid. Earth’s surface is approximately 510 million square kilometers in total.

Distribution of Earth’s Surface:

• Hydrosphere (water bodies): 361 million km² (70.9%)
• Lithosphere (land area): 149 million km² (29.1%)

Continents of the World

The Earth is divided into seven continents:

• Asia
• Africa
• North America
• South America
• Europe
• Australia
• Antarctica

Continents ranked by Continents by Area:

1. The seven continents by area are:
2. Asia: 44,579,000 square kilometers (17,212,000 square miles)
3. Africa: 30,375,000 square kilometers (11,728,000 square miles)
4. North America: 24,709,000 square kilometers (9,540,000 square miles)
5. South America: 17,842,000 square kilometers (6,890,000 square miles)
6. Antarctica: 14,000,000 square kilometers (5,400,000 square miles)
7. Europe: 10,529,000 square kilometers (4,065,000 square miles)
8. Australia: 8,513,000 square kilometers (3,287,000 square miles)

Continents ranked by population as of 2024 are:

1. Asia: Approximately 4.81 billion people (58.89% of the world’s population)
2. Africa: About 1.52 billion people (18.56%)
3. Europe: Roughly 743 million people (9.11%)
4. North America: Approximately 613 million people (7.51%)
5. South America: Around 436 million people (5.34%)
6. Australia/Oceania: About 46.5 million people (0.57%)
7. Antarctica: Antarctica has a seasonal population of 1,000–5,000 people depending on the season, but no permanent residents.

Largest and Smallest Countries

Largest Countries by Area:

• Russia
• Canada
• United States
• China
• Brazil

Smallest Countries by Area:

• Vatican City (0.44 km²)
• Monaco
• Nauru
• Tuvalu

Major Languages Spoken in the World

The world is home to thousands of languages, but some dominate in terms of speakers. Among the most spoken languages are:

• Mandarin Chinese
• English
• Spanish

Asia – The Largest Continent

Asia is the largest continent in terms of both area and people. Asia is the largest continent in terms of both area and people. It is often called the “continent of contrasts” due to its diverse cultures, landscapes, and climates.

• Area: 44 million km² (approximately 29.1% of Earth’s land surface)
• Population: It is home to over 60% of the world’s population.
• Boundaries: Asia is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east, Europe to the west, the Arctic Ocean to the north, and the Indian Ocean to the south.

Asia is known for its vast geographical diversity. It features some of the world’s tallest mountains, including the Himalayas, and the lowest point on Earth, the shores of the Dead Sea in Israel. Additionally, Asia boasts the world’s largest plateau—Tibet.

Key Features of Asia:

• Largest Plateau: Tibetan Plateau, with an area of 2.5 million km².
• Most Populous City: Tokyo, Japan.
• Highest Rainfall: Cherrapunji, India.
• Deepest Gorge: Kali Gandaki Gorge, Nepal.

Africa – The Second Largest Continent

Africa is often called the “continent of diversity” due to its vast range of ecosystems, cultures, and historical civilizations. Known for its ancient heritage, Africa is also rich in natural resources, particularly gold and diamonds.

• Area: 30.37 million km² (approximately 20.35% of Earth’s land surface)
• Population: Africa accounts for about 15% of the global population.
• Boundaries: Africa is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Red Sea to the east, and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans on the west and southeast.

Key Features of Africa:

• Longest River: Nile, stretching 6,695 km.
• Highest Peak: Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
• Deepest River: Congo River, also called the Zaire River.
• Newest nation: South Sudan, officially became independent in 2011.

North America – The “New World”

North America was discovered by Italian explorer Christopher Columbus in 1492. Often called the “New World,” this continent covers about 16.2% of the Earth’s landmass.

• Area: North America has an area of around 24.71 million km².
• Boundaries: Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Arctic Ocean to the north.

Key Features of North America:

• Hottest Place: Death Valley, California, with a temperature of 54.4°C.
• Largest Freshwater Lake: Lake Superior, shared by Canada and the U.S.
• Longest River: The Mississippi River, stretching 6,200 km.

South America – The “Lungs of the World”

Known as the “continent of birds” and home to the Amazon rainforest, South America plays a crucial role in regulating Earth’s oxygen levels.

• Area: South America covers around 11.9% of Earth’s land area.
• Boundaries: Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

Key Features of South America:

• Longest Mountain Range: Andes, spanning across seven countries.
• Largest Country: Brazil.
• Smallest Country: Suriname.

Antarctica – The Coldest Continent

Antarctica is the most remote, coldest, and windiest continent on Earth. About 98% of its surface is covered by ice.

• Area: It covers about 9% of the Earth’s surface.
• Climate: Antarctica experiences frigid temperatures year-round, with virtually no rainfall. From the Southern Ocean, the continent is covered.

Key Features of Antarctica:

• Longest Glacier: Lambert Glacier, measuring 400 km.

Europe – The “Peninsula Continent”

Europe is often called the “peninsula of peninsulas” because of its extensive coastline.

• Area: Europe occupies 7% of the Earth’s land area.
• Key Features: Europe is unique for its large number of landlocked countries and its diverse culture and history.
• Oldest Country: San Marino.
• Largest Country: Russia.
• Smallest Country: Vatican City.

Australia – The Island Continent

Australia is the smallest continent, known for its unique wildlife and landscapes. The entire landmass is often referred to as both a country and a continent.

• Area: 5% of Earth’s landmass.
• Key Features: The continent is home to some of the world’s most unique species, such as kangaroos and koalas.

Key Features of Australia:

• Longest River: Murray-Darling.
• Population: There are more sheep than people, making wool production a key industry.
• Largest Country: Australia.
• Smallest Country: Nauru.

Conclusion

Understanding the geography of our world gives us a deeper appreciation of the Earth’s incredible diversity. From the vast deserts of Africa to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, each continent holds its own unique wonders and challenges. Whether studying the natural environment or human societies, geography remains a critical tool in navigating our planet.

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