How many continents are there on Earth?

The correct answer is based on the widely accepted scientific model which identifies seven distinct continents on Earth: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia (often referred to as Oceania when including the Pacific islands), Europe, North America, and South America. This classification is important for geographical, cultural, and educational reasons as it helps to organize our understanding of the planet's landmasses, ecosystems, and human populations.

In many educational systems, the seven-continent model is taught as the standard. While there are variations in how continents may be defined or grouped in different cultures or educational contexts, the most common and globally recognized count is indeed seven. This understanding is reinforced in various atlases, geography courses, and global discussions, making it a fundamental aspect of geography education.