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Why were high radiation levels found near Lop Nur in the western Gobi Desert?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Physical map of the Gobi Desert region spanning southern Mongolia and northern China, showing major mountain ranges, sand areas, salt lakes, and spot elevations in meters. The map uses color shading to indicate elevation and includes a small locator map highlighting the Gobi Desert's position in Asia.
Gobi

High radiation levels found near Lop Nur in the western Gobi Desert are the result of nuclear weapons testing conducted by China.1

Between 1964 and 1996, the area served as the nation's primary test site for both atmospheric and underground nuclear explosions. These activities resulted in fallout that caused the elevated radiation levels detected in the surrounding region.2341