All Flashcards
Define 'overburden' in mining.
The soil and rock removed to reach the minerals.
Define 'tailings/slag' in mining.
Leftover materials after mineral extraction.
Define 'waste rock' in mining.
Rock removed that doesn't contain valuable minerals.
What is heap leaching?
Extracts minerals using chemical solutions to dissolve and collect them from piles of ore.
What are the general steps of open-pit mining?
- Remove overburden. 2. Extract minerals. 3. Process minerals. 4. Manage waste.
What are the general steps of strip mining?
- Remove overburden in strips. 2. Extract minerals (like coal). 3. Replace overburden. 4. Reclaim the land.
What are the general steps of heap leaching?
- Pile ore into heaps. 2. Apply chemical solutions. 3. Collect mineral-rich solution. 4. Extract minerals from the solution.
What is the main environmental concern regarding mining waste?
Toxic substances, land degradation, and water contamination.
Why is mountain top removal so destructive?
Causes massive habitat destruction and water pollution by leveling mountains.
What is a key difference between open-pit and underground mining?
Open-pit removes surface layer; underground accesses minerals deep below.
What are the main types of mining waste?
Overburden, tailings/slag, and waste rock.
What is the primary purpose of mining?
To extract valuable minerals and materials from the Earth.
Describe strip mining.
Removes overburden to extract minerals in strips, similar to open-pit but for shallower deposits.