NEWS · C1 Level - Part 2

Did you know about this gypsum dune field

Did you know New Mexico is home to the world's largest gypsum dune field? Gypsum, a powdery sulfate mineral, is rarely found as sand because it dissolves…

Level: C1 · 13 sentences

Transcript

1. Did you know New Mexico is home to the world's largest gypsum dune field?
2. Gypsum, a powdery sulfate mineral, is rarely found as sand because it dissolves easily in water.
3. But New Mexico's dry desert and weather patterns make it the perfect environment for this unique geological formation.
4. Check this out.
5. Welcome to White Sand National Park in New Mexico.
6. A vast, vivid valley of sparkling white dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.
7. At 275 square miles, it's the largest gypsum dunefield in the world.
8. This dazzling desert is the result of millions of years of geological gyrating.
9. Mountains rose, ancient seas receded, gypsum rich water evaporated, leaving this... Sensational!
10. This area has played some significant roles in American history.
11. Nearby White Sands Missile Range is famous for its role in technological testing.
12. 60 miles north, the world's first atomic bomb was detonated July of 1945.
13. And today, just next door is Holloman Air Force Base.