islandsize

Islands can be classified by their size, with a wide range of dimensions from tiny rocks to vast continental landmasses. There is no single, universally agreed-upon definition for when a landmass surrounded by water is considered an island versus a continent, though generally continents are much larger. Greenland is commonly recognized as the world's largest island, covering an area of approximately 2,166,086 square kilometers. In contrast, the smallest islands, often called islets or skerries, can be mere rocks that emerge at high tide.

The classification of island size can be important for various scientific and geographical studies. For example, island biogeography, the study of the species diversity of islands, often considers size as a primary factor influencing the number of species present. Larger islands tend to support more species due to a greater variety of habitats and larger population sizes, which are less susceptible to extinction. Conversely, smaller islands may host fewer species due to limited resources and increased vulnerability to environmental changes.

In everyday language, "island size" can also refer to a more subjective perception of an island's scale. Some people might consider an island large if it takes a significant amount of time to traverse, while others might focus on its population density or the availability of amenities. This subjective interpretation highlights that while objective measurements exist, the perceived size of an island can be influenced by individual experience and context.