The Tallest Mountains on Earth: It’s Not Everest, But These Two Volcanoes!
When it comes to the tallest mountains on Earth, the first name that typically comes to mind is Mount Everest. Located in the Himalayas, the Tibetan plateau, Everest stands at a majestic 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level. However, did you know that Everest is not the tallest mountain on our planet?
According to the Guinness World Records, the tallest mountain on Earth is actually not a mountain at all, but two volcanoes. Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, both located in Hawaii, United States, hold the record for being the tallest mountains in the world.
Meet Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa: The Tallest Mountains on Earth
Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano, stands tall at 4,207 meters (13,796 feet) above sea level, making it the tallest mountain above water. However, its total height from the bottom of the ocean floor to its summit is estimated to be around 9,700 meters (31,800 feet). That’s incredible!
Mauna Loa, also a dormant volcano, lies just south of Mauna Kea and has a height of 4,169 meters (13,678 feet) above sea level. Its total height is approximately 9,700 meters (31,800 feet) as well.
The Secret to Their Height?
So, why are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa significantly taller than Mount Everest? The answer lies in the ocean floor. Both volcanoes start from the bottom of the ocean and rise slowly to their summits. The majority of their height is above the ocean floor, making them essentially taller than Mount Everest.
Explore Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa
Mauna Kea is not only the tallest mountain above sea level but also boasts a summit that is home to an astronomical observatory. The Mauna Kea Observatory is one of the world’s finest and has been used by scientists to study the universe.
Mauna Loa, on the other hand, is known for its lava flows that form a chain of islands in the Pacific. A recent volcanic eruption in 1984 led to the formation of new land mass, increasing the island’s size and promoting a lush ecosystem.
Fascinating Facts and FAQs
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What is the difference in height between Mauna Kea/Mauna Loa and Everest?
- Mauna Kea/Mauna Loa: approximately 8,842 meters (28,976 feet) above sea level
- Mount Everest: 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level
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Are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes?
- No, both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are considered dormant volcanoes, meaning they no longer show signs of volcanic activity, but they have erupted in the past.
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Why are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa considered twin volcanoes?
- Both were formed at the same time, around 400,000 years ago, making them essentially "twins."
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Can people climb Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa?
- Yes! Both volcanoes have hiking trails to their summits, but climbers require permits and must follow guided routes to ensure safety.
- Are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa protected?
- Yes! Both volcanoes are within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park aims to preserve the unique ecological and cultural resources of the area.
In conclusion, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are not only record-breakers in terms of height, but also hold immense scientific and cultural value. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or simply curious about the natural wonders of our world, these two Pacific giants are definitely worth learning more about.
Image:
Illustration of Mauna Kea (left) and Mauna Loa (right) rising above the Pacific Ocean, with a comparison to the profile of Mount Everest (center). Designed by [Your Name].
