Mining Flashcards
1
Q
What is surface mining?
A
Surface mining is when a large, open working surface is created, often by drilling and blasting the rock with explosives. Removal of this rock creates a large pit or open-cut mine.
2
Q
What is underground mining?
A
Underground mining uses vertical shafts or a decline (slope) to transport workers and vehicles underground to pick up crushed ore and carry it to the surface.
3
Q
What is sand mining?
A
Sand mining uses dredging (underwater excavation) to remove minerals from sand.
4
Q
How can mining damage the environment?
A
Mining can cause erosion, subsidence of land (downward vertical movement/ cave in), poisoning of soil and water, dust, and loss of biodiversity - because it destroys ecosystems.
