3.2.3 Mineral Resouces - LITHOSPHERE

Question 1

Lithosphere and resources extracted from it

Answer 1

• Metals and metal ores.
• Industrial minerals.
• Construction materials.

Question 2

Geological processes

Answer 2

• Hydrothermal deposition.
• Metamorphic processes.
• Proterozoic marine sediments.
• Physical sediments.
• Biological sediments

Question 3

Laskys principle

Answer 3

As purity of mineral decreases, amount of mineral present increases exponentially.

Question 4

Exploratory techniques

Answer 4

• Satellite imagery.
• Seismic surveys.
• Gravimetry.
• Magnetometry.
• Resistivity.
• Trial drilling.

Question 5

Factors affecting mining viability

Answer 5

• Ore purity and cut-off ore grade.
• Chemical form.
• Associated geology: overburden, hydrology.
• Economics: cut-off ore grade and mining costs.

Question 6

Environmental impacts of mineral exploitation

Answer 6

• Turbid drainage water.
• Spoil.
• Leachate neutralisation.
• Site management.
• Site restoration.

Question 7

Strategies to secure future mineral supplies

Answer 7

• Improvements in exploratory techniques including remote sensing.
• Bioleaching with acidophilic bacteria. • Phytomining.
• Cradle to Cradle design.

Question 8

Advantages and difficulties of recycling

Answer 8

Advantages:
• Conservation of mineral resources.
• Reduced energy use (of mineral
extraction).
• Reduced mineral extraction/processing
impacts.
• Reduced waste disposal impacts.

Difficulties:
• Identification of materials.
• Separation of mixed materials.
• Reduction in quality.
• Increased transport costs/impacts.
• Collection difficulties.
• Lack of consumer cooperation.