Mauritania Antipode: The Other Side of the Earth
Dig a straight tunnel down through Nouakchott and you would surface in the Pacific Ocean, the point on the planet exactly opposite Mauritania.
What is the antipode of Mauritania?
An antipode is the point on the far side of the Earth, exactly opposite a given location. Measured from Nouakchott, the antipode of Mauritania sits at 18.1S 164.0E, out in the Pacific Ocean. Like most of the planet's land, Mauritania's antipode falls in open water, a reminder that oceans cover about 71 percent of the Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mauritania's Antipode
What is the antipode of Mauritania?
The antipode of Mauritania, measured from Nouakchott, is at 18.1S 164.0E, which lies in the Pacific Ocean.
If you dug straight through the Earth from Mauritania, where would you come out?
You would surface in the Pacific Ocean, on the exact opposite side of the planet from Nouakchott.
Why is Mauritania's antipode in the ocean?
Oceans cover about 71 percent of the Earth and land is unevenly spread, so about 85 percent of all land has its antipode at sea, Mauritania included.