
Geography & Places
Why Is the Dead Sea So Salty?
The Dead Sea is so salty because water leaves only by evaporation, leaving the salt behind. See how salty it is, why people float and why its level is falling.
Countries, cities, landmarks and borders: where places are, how big they are and what makes them unusual, with maps and official figures.

The Dead Sea is so salty because water leaves only by evaporation, leaving the salt behind. See how salty it is, why people float and why its level is falling.

Everest is the highest mountain above sea level at 8,848.86 m, but Mauna Kea is taller from base to peak and Chimborazo's top is farthest from Earth's centre.

Vatican City is the world's smallest country: 0.44 km² (about 109 acres) and 882 residents. Learn how it became a state in 1929 and which countries come next.