How Big Is the Tallest Mountain That Could Exist on Earth?

We’ve got some pretty tall mountains here on Earth. Granted, even the best of ‘em don’t hold a candle to what’s waiting on Mars, but they’re still impressive. Just look at the views Google got with its Street Mountain View shots.

But how tall could a mountain on Earth actually be, under the most perfect conditions? Henry Reich of MinutePhysics and now MinuteEarth digs in, or should we say summits? Suffice it to say the wildests peaks out there aren’t here at home, but until you’ve climbed Everest, you’re in no place to complain.