How Are Asian Countries Classified Geographically?

Asian countries are classified geographically as falling within the continent of Asia. The continent is the largest and most populous in the world and is located primarily in the northern and eastern hemispheres.

Asia covers approximately 8.6% of the Earth's total surface area and is home to 60% of the world's total population. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the population in Asia has quadrupled. The continent is defined as part of the landmass that is Eurasia. This is the western portion of the world that is occupied by Europe. Asia is bounded by the Pacific Ocean on the east, the Indian Ocean on the south and the Arctic Ocean on the north.

• Definition of Asia.

The first distinction of Asia from Europe was made by the ancient Greeks. They defined the border between Asia and Europe as the Aegean Sea, the Sea of Marmara, the Bosporus, the Black Sea, the Dardanelles, the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov. They used the Nile as the border between Asia and Africa. The definition of the border of Asia and Europe was one that began to raise issues. The border was changed so that they extended to the correct areas.

• Defined Regions of Asia.

Geographically, Asia is subdivided into a number of clearly defined regions. These regions are; Central Asia, East Asia, North Asia, Southeast Asia, West Asia and South Asia. Each of these regions is then divided into further groups. For example, Southeast Asia is divided into Mainland Southeast Asia and Maritime Southeast Asia.

The geographic classification of Asia is one that has changed quite dramatically over time. The borders of Asia are now specific and correct and the geographical areas of the continent are clearly marked and defined.