Most part of the Earth’s surface is covered with water. This giant water area is called the world ocean. Major portions of land - continents, and less pieces – islands are located in the world ocean.

Continents are surrounded by oceanic waters from all sides. There are six continents: Eurasia, Africa, North America, South America, Australia and Antarctica.

Eurasia is the biggest continent. The smallest one is Australia. Areas of islands are insignificant as compared to those of continents.

The equatorial line divides the globe into two equal parts. The word equator means a bisector. The upper part of the globe has more dry areas (lands). This is due to the fact that the Eurasian and North American continents, most of Africa and part of the South African continent are located above the equator. Solar energy falling onto the continents differs depending on their location. Oceans surrounding them too have different features. All these have greatly influenced the flora and fauna of these continents.

The hottest territories are in the African continent.

Territories with largest annual rainfall are in South America. There are dense forests here. And Australia has dry climate. There are such animal species that one cannot encounter in other continents. Australia is a home to such interesting animals as kangaroo, dingo, and duckbill.

Antarctica is the coldest continent. Covered with snow and ice, this continent is a home to penguins.