Question

the mining of which resource produces the most toxic waste? (1 point) copper quartz tin silica

Explanation:

To determine which resource mining produces the most toxic waste, we analyze each option:

• Copper: Mining copper (e.g., sulfide ore mining) generates toxic waste like acid mine drainage, heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, lead), and sulfide compounds that contaminate water and soil.
• Quartz: Quartz mining (for silica) has health risks from dust (silicosis) but less toxic waste production compared to copper.
• Tin: Tin mining waste is less toxic than copper’s, with fewer heavy metal or acid-related contaminants.
• Silica: Similar to quartz, focus is on dust exposure, not highly toxic waste like copper mining.

Copper mining’s waste (acidic, heavy metal - laden) is the most toxic among these.

Answer:

A. copper