A continent is one of Earth’s major landmasses. It is defined as a large, continuous area of land that is surrounded by water on all sides. The seven continents of Earth are North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Antarctica. The continents are thought to have formed over millions of years through the process of plate tectonics, which involves the movement and collision of Earth’s large plates of rock. Each continent has a unique geology, geography, climate, and culture that has been shaped by its history and environment.