What is the Largest Mountain on Earth?
The answer to “What is the largest mountain on Earth?” depends on how you define “largest.” While Mount Everest boasts the highest elevation above sea level, the largest mountain in terms of overall size and base-to-summit height is Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano in Hawaii.
The Mauna Kea Giant
Mauna Kea’s true size is often overlooked because much of it is submerged beneath the Pacific Ocean. When measured from its true base on the ocean floor to its summit, it dwarfs Mount Everest by a significant margin.
- Total Height: Mauna Kea extends nearly 33,500 feet (10,211 meters) from base to summit.
- Above Sea Level: Approximately 13,803 feet (4,207 meters) of Mauna Kea is visible above sea level.
Therefore, in terms of total height, Mauna Kea definitively claims the title of the largest mountain on Earth. The mountain’s bulk and geological history also contribute to its stature as a truly colossal landform. The sheer volume of volcanic material that comprises Mauna Kea is astounding, a testament to its prolonged and powerful formation over millions of years.
Why Everest Still Reigns Supreme in Popular Perception
Despite Mauna Kea’s impressive measurements, Mount Everest remains the undisputed champion in the public eye when discussing mountain size. This is primarily because of its altitude above sea level.
- Everest’s Elevation: Mount Everest’s summit reaches an altitude of 29,031.7 feet (8,848.86 meters) above sea level.
- Symbolic Significance: Everest has long been considered the “highest point on Earth” and holds immense cultural and symbolic importance. The challenge of climbing Everest and the prestige associated with summiting the world’s highest peak contribute to its enduring fame.
The difference in perspective highlights the importance of clarifying the metric used when discussing the “largest” mountain. While Everest is the highest, Mauna Kea is the biggest.
The Science Behind Mauna Kea’s Formation
Mauna Kea is a shield volcano, formed by successive eruptions of lava over millions of years. The process of hotspot volcanism is responsible for its creation.
- Hotspot Activity: A mantle plume, or “hotspot,” beneath the Earth’s crust remains relatively stationary, while the Pacific Plate moves slowly over it.
- Volcanic Eruptions: As the Pacific Plate moves, the hotspot generates a chain of volcanoes, with Mauna Kea being one of the oldest and largest.
- Post-Shield Stage: Mauna Kea has transitioned into a “post-shield” stage, characterized by more viscous lava flows and a steeper slope near the summit.
The slow and continuous nature of volcanic eruptions over extended periods has resulted in the enormous size of Mauna Kea, hidden largely beneath the ocean’s surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: How is the height of Mauna Kea measured?
The height of Mauna Kea is measured using a combination of sonar technology to map the ocean floor and precise surveying techniques to determine the elevation of the summit above sea level. These measurements are then combined to calculate the total height from base to peak. GPS technology also plays a crucial role in pinpointing the exact location and elevation.
FAQ 2: Why is Everest considered the “highest” but not the “largest”?
Everest is considered the “highest” because its summit reaches the highest altitude above sea level. The term “largest,” however, typically refers to the overall size or volume of a mountain, and especially the base-to-summit height, where Mauna Kea surpasses Everest.
FAQ 3: Are there other mountains that rival Mauna Kea in size?
Yes, there are other significant undersea mountains. For example, Tamu Massif, a massive extinct shield volcano located in the northwest Pacific Ocean, is arguably the largest single volcano on Earth in terms of area covered, but not necessarily in terms of total height as definitively proven. It is important to consider that defining “mountain” becomes less clear in submarine environments.
FAQ 4: What makes Mauna Kea an ideal location for astronomical observatories?
Mauna Kea’s high altitude, dry atmosphere, and stable airflow make it an exceptional location for astronomical observatories. Its position above a large portion of the Earth’s atmosphere reduces atmospheric distortion, allowing for clearer and more detailed observations of the universe. The lack of light pollution also contributes to its suitability.
FAQ 5: What is the significance of Mauna Kea to Native Hawaiians?
Mauna Kea holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians. It is considered a sacred place, and the summit is traditionally viewed as the home of deities. The construction of astronomical observatories on Mauna Kea has been a source of controversy and protest, as some Native Hawaiians believe it desecrates the sacred mountain.
FAQ 6: What is the geological future of Mauna Kea?
Mauna Kea is currently a dormant volcano and is considered unlikely to erupt again. However, the Hawaiian hotspot continues to be active, and new volcanoes are forming southeast of the Big Island. This demonstrates the ongoing volcanic activity in the region.
FAQ 7: How do scientists study Mauna Kea’s submerged base?
Scientists study Mauna Kea’s submerged base using a variety of methods, including sonar mapping, seismic surveys, and deep-sea drilling. These techniques allow them to understand the structure and composition of the underwater portions of the volcano.
FAQ 8: What types of telescopes are located on Mauna Kea?
Mauna Kea is home to some of the world’s most powerful telescopes, including the Keck Observatory, the Subaru Telescope, and the Gemini Observatory. These telescopes operate across a wide range of wavelengths, from visible light to infrared and submillimeter radiation.
FAQ 9: What are the environmental concerns related to the observatories on Mauna Kea?
Environmental concerns include the potential impact on native ecosystems, the use of water resources, and the disruption of the natural landscape. Efforts are being made to minimize the environmental impact of the observatories through responsible construction practices, water conservation measures, and habitat restoration projects.
FAQ 10: Can visitors climb to the summit of Mauna Kea?
Yes, visitors can drive or hike to the summit of Mauna Kea. However, it is important to be aware of the high altitude and the potential for altitude sickness. It is recommended to spend some time acclimatizing at a lower elevation before ascending to the summit. Warm clothing is also essential due to the cold temperatures.
FAQ 11: How old is Mauna Kea?
Mauna Kea is estimated to be approximately one million years old. Its formation began as a submarine volcano and gradually built up over millions of years through repeated eruptions.
FAQ 12: What other geological features are present on Mauna Kea besides the volcanic cone?
Besides the main volcanic cone, Mauna Kea also features glacial features from past ice ages, including moraines and cirques. These features are unique because they are found on a tropical island, making Mauna Kea a fascinating site for geological research. The presence of these features indicates that Mauna Kea was significantly colder in the past.