Asia is the largest continent on Earth by area, covering approximately 44.58 million square kilometers (17.21 million square miles). It is home to the largest population of any continent, with over 4.7 billion people, accounting for about 60% of the world's population. Asia includes diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes, ranging from vast deserts and mountain ranges to densely populated urban areas. Notable countries in Asia include China, India, and Japan, each contributing significantly to global culture and economy. This continent's size and diversity make it a pivotal region in international affairs, trade, and ecology.