The Height of Reality: How Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa Outdo Everest in the Records
When it comes to the world’s tallest mountains, Mount Everest is often the first name that comes to mind. Located in the Himalayas, it stands at an impressive 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level. However, there are two other mountains that are often overlooked, yet they hold the record for being the tallest mountains in the world. Meet Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two volcanoes in Hawaii that outdo Everest in terms of overall height.
Mauna Kea: The Tallest Mountain in the World
Mauna Kea, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a dormant volcano that rises over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level. However, its height is not measured from its base to its summit, but rather from its base on the ocean floor. When measured from its base, Mauna Kea stands at an astonishing 10,203 meters (33,476 feet) tall, making it the tallest mountain in the world.
Mauna Loa: The Largest Mountain in the World
Mauna Loa, also located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is the largest mountain in the world, covering an area of approximately 19,000 square kilometers (7,336 square miles). It rises over 4,169 meters (13,678 feet) above sea level, but its total height from its base on the ocean floor is an impressive 9,700 meters (31,800 feet).
Why Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa Outdo Everest
So, why do Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa outdo Everest in terms of height? The answer lies in the way we measure mountains. While Everest’s height is measured from its base to its summit, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa’s height is measured from their base on the ocean floor to their summit. This means that Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa have a much greater overall height than Everest, despite being shorter above sea level.
Image:
[Insert an image of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, with a comparison to Mount Everest]
FAQs:
Q: Why are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa not as well-known as Mount Everest?
A: Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are located in Hawaii, which is a remote island chain, making them less accessible to climbers and tourists. Additionally, their height is measured from their base on the ocean floor, which is not as widely recognized as Everest’s height above sea level.
Q: Can you climb Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa?
A: Yes, Mauna Kea is a popular destination for stargazers and astronomers, with many telescopes located at its summit. However, Mauna Loa is a more challenging climb due to its size and terrain.
Q: Are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes?
A: Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano, meaning it is no longer actively erupting. Mauna Loa, on the other hand, is considered an active volcano, with its last eruption occurring in 1984.
Q: How do Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa compare to other mountains in the world?
A: Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are the tallest mountains in the world when measured from their base on the ocean floor. However, when measured from their base to their summit, they are not as tall as other mountains, such as Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Elbrus.
Q: Can you visit Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa?
A: Yes, both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are open to visitors. Mauna Kea is a popular destination for stargazers and astronomers, while Mauna Loa offers hiking and camping opportunities. However, visitors must be aware of the risks associated with climbing and hiking on active volcanoes.
