Question

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1. for each of the following mining methods, explain the reason for its use and give an advantage and disadvantage:

(a) surface mining:

(b) subsurface mining:

Explanation:

(a) Surface mining

• Reason for use: Surface mining is used when mineral deposits are near the Earth’s surface. It’s cost - effective for shallow deposits as less complex equipment is needed to access the ore.
• Advantage: It has a high ore recovery rate (more of the mineral can be extracted) and is generally less expensive to operate compared to subsurface mining because there’s no need for extensive underground infrastructure like tunnels.
• Disadvantage: It causes significant environmental damage, including habitat destruction, soil erosion, and large - scale land disruption (e.g., open - pit mines leave large scars on the landscape).

• Reason for use: Subsurface mining is employed when mineral deposits are deep underground. It’s the only feasible way to access these deep - seated deposits without removing large amounts of overlying rock (which would be impractical or too costly with surface mining).
• Advantage: It has a much smaller surface footprint compared to surface mining, so it causes less surface - level environmental disruption (like less habitat destruction on the surface).
• Disadvantage: It is more dangerous for miners due to risks such as cave - ins, gas explosions, and poor air quality in underground tunnels. It also has a lower ore recovery rate and is more expensive to operate because of the need for complex underground support systems and ventilation.

Answer:

• Reason for use: Mineral deposits are near the surface.
• Advantage: High ore recovery, lower operating cost.
• Disadvantage: Severe environmental damage (habitat loss, erosion).

(b) Subsurface mining