New Mexico Trivia!

What is New Mexico's nickname?

• The Sunshine State

• The Land of Enchantment

• The Grand Canyon State

• The Lone Star State

Answer explanation

New Mexico is known as 'The Land of Enchantment' due to its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The other options refer to different states: Florida, Arizona, and Texas.

New Mexico is one of the "Four Corner States." Which of the following states is NOT one of the Four Corner States?

• Arizona

• Colorado

• Nevada

• Utah

Answer explanation

Nevada is not one of the Four Corner States. The Four Corner States are Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, which all meet at a single point in the southwest United States.

What is unique about Santa Fe, New Mexico, regarding its elevation?

• It is the lowest capital in the country.

• It is the highest capital in the country.

• It is a capital city located at sea level.

• It is known for its underground capitol buildings.

Answer explanation

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is unique because it is the highest capital in the United States, situated at an elevation of 7,199 feet, making it distinct among state capitals.

What percentage of New Mexico is covered with trees?

• Less than 5%

• Roughly 10%

• Over 25%

• Almost 50%

Answer explanation

Despite being known for its deserts, New Mexico actually has a significant amount of land covered in trees. In fact, over 25% of the state is estimated to be forested.

Which major North American river flows through the heart of New Mexico?

• The Colorado River

• The Mississippi River

• The Rio Grande

• The Columbia River

Answer explanation

The Rio Grande (or Río Bravo del Norte in Mexico) is New Mexico's central river, vital for its communities and environment. While it flows through the state, it's most recognized for forming a significant part of the U.S.-Mexico border, specifically between Texas and Mexico.

In New Mexico, which animal greatly outnumbers the human population?

• Sheep

• Horses

• Chickens

• Cows

Answer explanation

In New Mexico, the cattle population is significantly larger than the human population, with cows being a major part of the state's agriculture. This makes 'Cows' the correct answer, as they outnumber humans.

From the top of Capulin Volcano National Monument, how many different states can be seen on a clear day?

• Two

• Three

• Four

• Five

Answer explanation

From the summit of Capulin Volcano, on a clear day, you can see parts of five states: New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Kansas. This unique vantage point allows for a broad view across state lines.

What is the White Sands National Monument in New Mexico primarily composed of?

• Quartz sand

• Gypsum crystals

• Volcanic ash

• Limestone

Answer explanation

White Sands National Monument is primarily made of gypsum crystal, which forms the stunning white dunes. Unlike quartz sand, gypsum is a soft mineral that creates the unique landscape found in this area.

What is the state flower of New Mexico?

• Sunflower

• Rose

• Yucca

• Poppy

Answer explanation

New Mexico's state flower is the Yucca, which is a hardy plant native to the region. The other options, such as Sunflower, Rose, and Poppy, are not designated as the state flower.

What distinction does New Mexico hold regarding PhDs per capita?

• It has the fewest PhDs per capita.

• It has the most PhDs per capita.

• It is average in PhDs per capita.

• It does not track PhDs per capita.

Answer explanation

New Mexico holds the distinction of having the most PhDs per capita, indicating a high concentration of doctoral degree holders relative to its population.