What is the largest continuous mass of land known as?

The largest continuous mass of land is referred to as a continent. Continents are extensive landmasses that are generally recognized as significant portions of Earth's surface, with defined geographical boundaries. They are large enough to encompass various ecosystems, cultures, and geological features.

Continents differ from islands, which are smaller landmasses completely surrounded by water. While an island can be part of a larger landmass or continent, it does not achieve the same scale as a continent itself.

An archipelago, on the other hand, consists of a group or chain of islands, which also do not represent a single continuous mass of land but rather multiple smaller entities separated by water.

A peninsula is a landform that is surrounded by water on most sides but remains connected to the mainland. While it can be large, it still does not compare to the enormity and characteristics associated with a continent.

Therefore, identifying a continent as the largest continuous mass of land underscores its significance in both geographical and geological contexts.