Which ocean is the largest on Earth?

The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on Earth, covering an area of about 63 million square miles (165 million square kilometers). It is not only the most extensive ocean but also the deepest, containing the Mariana Trench, which plunges to about 36,000 feet (over 10,900 meters). Its vastness influences global weather patterns and ocean currents and plays a critical role in marine biodiversity.

In contrast, the Atlantic Ocean, while significant, is considerably smaller than the Pacific. The Indian Ocean, even more limited in size, ranks third among the major oceans. The Arctic Ocean, the smallest of all, is located around the North Pole and is characterized by sea ice, making it the least extensive.

Thus, the Pacific Ocean's sheer size and depth establish it as the largest ocean, influencing various geographical and ecological processes across the globe.