Delaware Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Delaware Mountains |
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| Highest point | |
| Peak | Delaware Benchmark |
| Elevation | 5,888 ft (1,795 m) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 83 mi (134 km) N/S |
| Width | 106 mi (171 km) E/W |
| Area | 4,761 sq mi (12,330 km2) |
| Geography | |
| Country | United States |
| State | Texas |
The Delaware Mountains are a cool mountain range found in Texas, a big state in the United States. They stretch across a part of Culberson County.
The tallest spot in these mountains is called the Delaware Benchmark. It reaches about 5,888 feet (1,795 m) high, which is like climbing a really tall building! These mountains start near Guadalupe Pass and go south-southeast. They are close to the famous Guadalupe Mountains and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
The Delaware Mountains are made of layers of rock like limestone, sandstone, and shale. These layers formed about 250 million years ago during a time called the Permian period. This rock formation is known as the Delaware Mountain Formation. The mountains got their name from the Lenape people, also known as the Delaware Indians.
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Exploring the Delaware Mountains
The Delaware Mountains are a special place in West Texas. They offer amazing views and a peek into Earth's ancient past. This range is part of a larger system of mountains in the area.
Where are the Delaware Mountains?
These mountains are located in the western part of Texas. They are mainly found within Culberson County. The range stretches for about 83 miles (134 km) from north to south. It is also about 106 miles (171 km) wide from east to west.
What is the Highest Point?
The highest peak in the Delaware Mountains is the Delaware Benchmark. This point stands tall at 5,888 feet (1,795 meters) above sea level. It is a significant landmark in the region.
How Were These Mountains Formed?
The Delaware Mountains were formed a very long time ago. About 250 million years ago, during the Permian period, layers of rock built up. These layers include limestone, sandstone, and shale. Over millions of years, these layers were pushed up to create the mountains we see today. This specific rock structure is called the Delaware Mountain Formation.
Who are the Delaware Indians?
The mountains are named after the Lenape people. They are a Native American tribe also known as the Delaware Indians. They lived in parts of what is now the eastern United States. Their name was given to these mountains in Texas.
Wind Power in the Mountains
The Delaware Mountains are not just about natural beauty. They also play a role in producing clean energy.
What is the Delaware Mountain Wind Farm?
The Delaware Mountain Wind Energy Center is a special place on the northern part of the range. It is a wind farm that uses wind turbines to create electricity. This farm started operating in 1999.
How Much Energy Does it Make?
This wind farm can produce 28.5 megawatts of power. That is enough electricity for many homes! It helps provide clean, renewable energy for the area. The wind farm is operated by a company called NextEra Energy Resources.
