What is the continent?

North America is a continent in the Northern Hemisphere and almost entirely within the Western Hemisphere. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. North America covers an area of about 24,709,000 square kilometers (9,540,000 square miles), about 4.8 percent of the Earth's total surface area. North America is the third-largest continent by land area, after Asia and Africa.

The continent is home to a wide variety of cultures and languages. The most populous country in North America is the United States, with a population of over 328 million people. Other major countries include Canada, Mexico, and Greenland.

The climate of North America varies from the tropical rainforests of Central America to the tundra of the Arctic. The continent is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life.

North America has a rich history, dating back to the arrival of the first humans about 15,000 years ago. The continent has been home to many different civilizations over the centuries, including the Maya, Aztec, and Inca empires.

Today, North America is a major economic and political power. It is home to some of the world's largest cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. North America is also a major tourist destination, with attractions such as the Statue of Liberty, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Grand Canyon.