Factors Affecting Mining Viabilty Flashcards
(6 cards)
1
Q
How does ore purity affect mining viability?
A
If ore grade is low
• more rock needs to be mined
• more spoil/pollution
• more energy needed for mining
2
Q
How does chemical form affect mining viability?
A
Affects ease of chemical extraction of metal
—> e.g. aluminium form bauxite but
not clay
3
Q
How does overburden affect mining viability?
A
More blasting, landslides and drainage occurs
4
Q
How does depth affect mining viability?
A
Cost rises rapidly as depth increases
5
Q
Cut Of Ore Grade & Market Economics
A
High market value = COOG ⬇️
Lower market value = COOG ⬆️
Better extraction tech = COOG ⬇️
Higher energy costs = COOG ⬆️
6
Q
How does transport costs affect mining viability?
A
Distance to market; fuel costs
