Final answer:
The absolute area of Europe is not definitively known due to the historical use of maps as tools for perspective-based representation, territorial disputes, and ongoing geological changes that alter continental positions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The absolute area of Europe is unknown due to historical mapping practices, geopolitical disputes, and geological changes. Maps throughout history have been influenced by the perspective and agenda of the mapmaker, leading to inaccuracies. Europeans not only placed themselves at the center of the world in maps but also used maps as tools for conquest and colonization, often depicting Europe as larger than it truly is. Furthermore, territorial claims by different political entities can lead to disputes over boundaries, consequently making precise measurements challenging.
Adding to the complexity is the physical change in geography over time. For instance, Europe and North America are moving apart at a rate of about 5 meters per century due to tectonic plate movements along the mid-Atlantic Rift. This continual geological process makes it difficult to define a permanent absolute area for Europe or any other continent.