Engineering Flashcards

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1
Q

A large machine used for digging and moving earth.

A

Excavator

Example sentence: “The excavator broke down, causing delays in the construction project.”

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2
Q

A naturally occurring material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted.

A

Ore

Example sentence: “The mine is rich in iron ore, making it highly profitable.”

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3
Q

A vertical or inclined opening in the ground, typically for accessing a mine or conducting drilling.

A

Shaft

Example sentence: “The miners descended into the shaft to extract coal from deep underground.”

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4
Q

Waste material left over after the extraction of valuable minerals from ore.

A

Tailings

Example sentence: “The company implemented measures to properly dispose of tailings to minimize environmental impact.”

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5
Q

Vibrations and movements of the Earth’s crust caused by geological processes such as earthquakes.

A

Seismic Activity:

Example sentence: “Seismic activity in the region prompted the mine to reinforce its infrastructure to ensure safety.”

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6
Q

Strong and sturdy, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.

A

Robust

Example sentence: “The new equipment has a robust design, making it suitable for rugged mining environments.”

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7
Q

Achieving maximum productivity with minimal waste or effort.

A

Efficient

Example sentence: “The company implemented efficient mining practices to reduce costs and increase profitability.”

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8
Q

Consistently performing well and meeting expectations.

A

Reliable

Example sentence: “Our team of engineers ensures the reliable operation of machinery to minimize downtime.”

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9
Q

Capable of being maintained or continued over the long term without depleting natural resources.

A

Sustainable

Example sentence: “The company is committed to sustainable mining practices to protect the environment for future generations.”

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10
Q

To investigate thoroughly or search for hidden information

A

Dig deep:

Example sentence: “We need to dig deep to uncover the root cause of the equipment malfunction.”

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11
Q

To find something highly valuable or successful.

A

Strike gold

Example sentence: “The exploration team struck gold when they discovered a new vein of precious metals.”

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12
Q

To reach the lowest point or experience the worst situation.

A

Hit rock bottom

Example sentence: “After years of mismanagement, the company hit rock bottom and went bankrupt.”

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13
Q

To remove or take out something, usually with effort or force.

A

Extract

Example sentence: “The miners extract coal from underground mines using specialized equipment.”

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14
Q

To bore holes into the ground or rock for exploration or extraction purposes.

A

Drill

Example sentence: “The geologists drilled core samples to analyze the composition of the rock formations.”

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15
Q

To search for valuable minerals or metals in a particular area.

A

Prospect

Example sentence: “The company hired a team of geologists to prospect for gold deposits in the region.”

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16
Q

Operating at a financial loss or having negative profits.

A

In the red

Example sentence: “The company has been in the red for several consecutive quarters due to declining commodity prices.”

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17
Q

Practical, realistic, and straightforward.

A

Down to earth:

Example sentence: “The project manager is down to earth and prefers simple solutions to complex problems.”

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18
Q

Take advantage of an opportunity promptly while it’s available.

A

Strike while the iron is hot:

Example sentence: “The company decided to invest in new technology, striking while the iron was hot to gain a competitive edge.”

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19
Q

Doing something quickly or cheaply without following proper procedures or standards.

A

Cutting corners:

Example sentence: “Cutting corners in safety protocols led to a series of accidents at the mine.”

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20
Q

To work hard or persistently.

A

Grind

Example sentence: “Miners have to grind through long shifts in difficult conditions.”

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21
Q

A machine used to crush large rocks or stones into smaller pieces.

A

Rock Crusher

Example sentence: “The rock crusher processes ore into manageable sizes for further processing.”

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22
Q

A hole drilled into the ground and filled with explosives for blasting.

A

Blast Hole

Example sentence: “The blast hole was carefully prepared before detonation to maximize efficiency.”

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23
Q

Mechanical device for transporting materials or ore within a mine.

A

Conveyor

Example: “The conveyor system efficiently moves ore from the extraction site to the processing plant.”

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24
Q

Machine used for drilling holes in rock formations to extract minerals or for exploration purposes.

A

Drill rig

Example: “The drill rig reached depths of over 500 meters in search of gold deposits.”

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25
Q

Residue material left over after the extraction of minerals from ore.

A

Tailings

Example: “The company implemented measures to responsibly dispose of tailings and minimize environmental impact.”

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26
Q

Established procedures to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment in mining operations.

A

Safety protocol

Example: “All employees must adhere to strict safety protocols while working in the mine.”

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27
Q

Furnace used for smelting or refining metals from ore using high temperatures.

A

Blast furnace

Example: “The blast furnace operates continuously to produce molten iron from raw materials.”

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28
Q

Mixture of water and finely ground particles of ore or other materials.

A

Slurry

Example: “The slurry is pumped through pipelines for processing and extraction of valuable minerals.”

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29
Q

Accumulation of ore or materials stored for future use or processing.

A

Stockpile

Example: “The company maintains a large stockpile of coal to meet demand during peak seasons.”

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30
Q

Containment area for storing and managing tailings from mining operations.

A

Tailings pond

Example: “The tailings pond underwent regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.”

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31
Q

Having high concentration or compactness.

A

Dense

Example: “The dense rock formations required specialized drilling equipment.”

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32
Q

Broken or cracked, especially concerning rock formations.

A

Fractured

Example: “The fractured bedrock posed challenges during tunneling operations.”

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33
Q

Left empty or deserted, often referring to old mine sites.

A

Abandoned

Example: “The abandoned mine was reclaimed and rehabilitated to restore the surrounding ecosystem.”

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34
Q

Strong and sturdy, capable of withstanding heavy use.

A

Robust

Example: “The robust conveyor system operated efficiently even under extreme conditions.”

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35
Q

Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

A

Sustainable

Example: “The company implemented sustainable mining practices to minimize environmental impact.”

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36
Q

Covering a wide area or scope.

A

Expansive

Example: “The mine had an expansive network of tunnels and shafts.”

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37
Q

Difficult or impossible to reach or access.

A

Inaccessible

Example: “The ore deposit was located in an inaccessible region of the mountains.”

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38
Q

Relating to or caused by earthquakes or other earth movements.

A

Seismic

Example: “Seismic monitoring detected minor tremors in the vicinity of the mine.”

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39
Q

Having the tendency to cause gradual deterioration or destruction.

A

Corrosive

Example: “The corrosive nature of certain chemicals required special handling procedures.”

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40
Q

To discover a rich deposit of minerals or ore.

A

Hit a vein

Example: “After months of exploration, the geologists finally hit a vein of gold.”

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41
Q

Coming close to the deadline or endpoint of a project.

A

Down to the wire

Example: “We’re down to the wire with the construction of the new mine shaft.”

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42
Q

To start over or rethink a plan after a setback or failure.

A

“Back to the drawing board”

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43
Q

Currently being planned or developed and expected to happen in the future

A

In the pipeline

Example: “The new ore processing plant is in the pipeline and should be operational by next year.”

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44
Q

A small, visible part of a larger problem or issue.

A

Tip of the iceberg

Example: “The environmental damage caused by the mine is just the tip of the iceberg.”

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45
Q

To restore or reclaim land affected by mining activities.

A

Rehabilitate

Example: “The company is required to rehabilitate the land once mining operations cease.”

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46
Q

To observe, track, or supervise the progress or conditions of something.

A

Monitor

Example: “The environmental team monitors water quality in the vicinity of the mine.”

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47
Q

To purify or process raw materials to improve their quality or value.

A

Refine

Example: “The ore undergoes refining to extract precious metals.”

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48
Q

To cease operations and leave a mine site.

A

Abandon

Example: “The company decided to abandon the mine due to declining profitability.”

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49
Q

To restore or rehabilitate land affected by mining activities.

A

Reclaim

Example: “The government mandated the mining company to reclaim the land after operations ceased.”

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50
Q

To use explosives to break or fragment rock formations.

A

Blasting

Example: “The miners conducted controlled blasting to create access tunnels.”

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51
Q

To evaluate or determine the nature, quality, or significance of something.

A

Assess

Example: “The engineers assessed the stability of the mine shaft before allowing workers to enter.”

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52
Q

To start a process or activity.

A

Get the ball rolling

Example: “Let’s get the ball rolling on the construction of the new mine facility.”

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53
Q

To improvise or make decisions as events unfold.

A

Play it by ear

Example: “We’ll play it by ear and adjust our plans based on the drilling results.”

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54
Q

To understand or grasp the meaning or intention behind someone’s words.

A

Catch someone’s drift

Example: “I’m not sure what the engineer meant, but I think I caught his drift.”

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55
Q

To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation.

A

“Bite the bullet”

Example: “We’ll have to bite the bullet and invest in new equipment to improve efficiency.”

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56
Q

To familiarize oneself with a new or unfamiliar situation.

A

Get the lay of the land

Example: “Before starting exploration, the geologists need to get the lay of the land.”

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57
Q

Extremely angry or agitated about something.

A

Up in arms

Example: “The community was up in arms over the proposed expansion of the mine.”

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58
Q

To maintain one’s position or opinion firmly.

A

Stick to one’s guns

Example: “Despite opposition, the company decided to stick to its guns and proceed with the project.”

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59
Q

To go through a series of difficult or time-consuming tasks or procedures.

A

“Jump through hoops”

Example: “We had to jump through hoops to obtain the necessary permits for the new mine.”

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60
Q

A network of fans and shafts used to circulate air throughout a mine to maintain air quality and remove hazardous gases.

A

Ventilation system

Example: “The ventilation system malfunctioned, causing concerns about air quality in the mine.”

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61
Q

A structure built to contain and manage tailings from mining operations, often constructed with embankments and liners to prevent environmental contamination.

A

Tailings dam

Example: “The tailings dam overflowed during heavy rainfall, leading to environmental damage downstream.”

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62
Q

A study of the geological and structural characteristics of an area to assess its suitability for mining activities and identify potential risks.

A

Geotechnical survey

Example: “The geotechnical survey revealed unstable ground conditions, prompting adjustments to the mine design.”

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63
Q

A large, heavy-duty vehicle used to transport materials or ore within a mine, typically equipped with a bed for carrying loads

A

Haul truck

Example: “The haul truck transported ore from the extraction site to the processing plant.”

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64
Q

The residue or by-product left over after smelting or refining metal ores, often consisting of impurities and waste materials.

A

Slag

Example: “The slag from the smelting process was disposed of in designated landfills.”

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65
Q

A mining method in which horizontal tunnels, or drifts, are excavated along the mineral deposit to access and extract ore.

A

Drift mining

Example: “Drift mining is commonly used in situations where the ore body is shallow and extends horizontally.”

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66
Q

A chemical process used to extract gold and silver from ore by dissolving them in a cyanide solution.

A

Cyanide leaching

Example: “The mine employed cyanide leaching to recover gold from low-grade ore deposits.”

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67
Q

The gradual sinking or settling of the ground surface due to underground mining activities, often resulting in surface depressions or land deformation.

A

Subsidence

Example: “Subsidence caused by underground mining led to structural damage to nearby buildings.”

68
Q

Not allowing fluid or gases to pass through, often used to describe barriers or liners in tailings dams.

A

Impermeable

Example: “The impermeable liner of the tailings dam prevented seepage into the surrounding soil.”

69
Q

About to happen or occur in the near future.

A

Impending

Example: “The impending closure of the mine prompted discussions about reclamation plans.”

70
Q

Native to a particular region or area, often referring to local communities affected by mining activities.

A

Indigenous

Example: “The company consulted with indigenous communities to address concerns about land use and resource extraction.”

71
Q

Acting to reduce or alleviate the severity or impact of something, such as environmental impacts or safety risks.

A

Mitigating

Example: “The company implemented mitigating measures to minimize dust emissions from mining operations.”

72
Q

Harmful or unfavorable, often used to describe the effects of mining on the environment or communities.

A

Adverse

Example: “The adverse impacts of mining on water quality required remediation efforts.”

73
Q

Tending to spread uncontrollably and disrupt natural ecosystems, often referring to non-native plant species introduced by mining activities.

A

Invasive

Example: “Invasive species introduced by mining operations threatened the biodiversity of the surrounding area.”

74
Q

Restored to a natural or usable state after being affected by mining activities, often referring to land or ecosystems.

A

Reclaimed

Example: “The reclaimed mine site was transformed into a recreational area for the local community.”

75
Q

Designed or constructed to withstand seismic activity or earthquakes.

A

Seismic-resistant

Example: “The mine’s infrastructure was built to be seismic-resistant to minimize damage during earthquakes.”

76
Q

Example: “Coal and oil are examples of non-renewable resources that are finite in supply.”

A

Non-renewable

77
Q

Having a wide variety of plant and animal species, often used to describe ecosystems impacted by mining activities.

A

Biodiverse

Example: “Efforts were made to protect the region’s biodiverse habitats from the impacts of mining.”

78
Q

To commit to a decision or course of action, especially when it involves risk or uncertainty.

A

Take the plunge

Example: “After months of planning, the company decided to take the plunge and invest in a new mining project.”

79
Q

Operating discreetly or unnoticed, often to avoid attention or scrutiny.

A

Under the radar

Example: “The company conducted exploratory drilling under the radar to avoid opposition from environmental groups.”

80
Q

Free from danger or difficulty, often used to describe a situation where a crisis has been averted.

A

Out of the woods

Example: “Thanks to swift action, the company was out of the woods and able to resume normal operations after the equipment malfunction.”

81
Q

To take action to mitigate or correct environmental damage or contamination caused by mining activities.

A

Remediate

Example: “The company worked to remediate the polluted waterways affected by acid mine drainage.”

82
Q

To remove or drain water from an area or structure, often to facilitate mining operations or prevent flooding

A

Dewater

Example: “Pumps were used to dewater the mine shaft after heavy rainfall.”

83
Q

To dispose of or store waste materials, such as tailings, in a designated area.

A

Tail

Example: “The company decided to tail the waste rock in an engineered containment facility.”

84
Q

To filter or seep through a porous substance, often used to describe the movement of fluids through soil or rock formations.

A

Percolate

Example: “Rainwater percolated through the soil, carrying contaminants into groundwater sources.”

85
Q

To sell off assets or investments, often used to describe companies relinquishing ownership of mining operations.

A

Divest

Example: “The company decided to divest its coal mining assets to focus on renewable energy.”

86
Q

To make something stable or secure, often used to describe efforts to prevent slope instability or collapse in mining areas.

A

Stabilize

Example: “Rock bolting was used to stabilize the walls of the open pit mine.”

87
Q

To spread out or scatter, often used to describe the movement of pollutants or contaminants in the environment.

A

Disperse

Example: “Wind disperses dust particles from mining operations over a wide area.”

88
Q

The layer of soil, rock, or other material covering a mineral deposit, which must be removed before mining can begin.

A

Overburden

Example: “The excavators cleared away the overburden to expose the coal seam below.”

89
Q

A person who searches for mineral deposits or valuable resources, often using exploration techniques such as sampling or drilling.

A

Prospector

Example: “The prospector spent years traversing remote regions in search of undiscovered mineral deposits.”

90
Q

A detailed strategy outlining the steps and measures for restoring land affected by mining activities to its original or equivalent state.

A

Reclamation plan

Example: “The reclamation plan outlined measures for revegetating the disturbed areas and controlling erosion.”

91
Q

Lacking stability or prone to collapse, often used to describe ground conditions or rock formations in mining areas.

A

Unstable

Example: “The unstable ground posed challenges during tunneling operations.”

92
Q

Polluted or tainted by the presence of harmful substances or contaminants, such as heavy metals or chemicals

A

Contaminated

Example: “The soil and water in the vicinity of the mine were contaminated by industrial runoff.”

93
Q

Not transparent or clear, often used to describe water or liquids containing suspended particles or impurities.

A

Opaque

Example: “The opaque liquid in the settling pond indicated high levels of sedimentation.”

94
Q

Causing or characterized by the wearing away of soil or rock surfaces through the action of wind, water, or ice.

A

Erosive

Example: “The erosive forces of the river eroded the banks near the mine site.”

95
Q

In a state of disrepair or deterioration, often used to describe old or neglected structures at abandoned mine sites

A

Dilapidated

Example: “The dilapidated buildings at the abandoned mine were scheduled for demolition.”

96
Q

Exhibiting a tendency to undergo chemical reactions or changes, often used to describe materials that can leach contaminants into the environment.

A

Reactive

Example: “The reactive nature of certain mine waste materials required careful handling and containment.”

97
Q

Repelling or resistant to water, often used to describe minerals or materials that do not readily absorb moisture.

A

Hydrophobic

Example: “The hydrophobic properties of the mineral made it difficult to separate from water during processing.”

98
Q

Chemically inactive or unreactive, often used to describe materials that do not undergo significant chemical changes.

A

Inert

Example: “The inert waste material was safely disposed of in designated landfills.”

99
Q

To remove or extract substances from a solid material, often using a liquid solvent or solution.

A

Leach

Example: “The leaching process extracted valuable metals from the ore concentrate.”

100
Q

To excavate or remove sediment or debris from underwater areas, often using specialized equipment such as dredgers.

A

Dredge

Example: “The company dredged the riverbed to extract sand and gravel for construction projects.”

101
Q

To counteract or render ineffective, often used to describe efforts to mitigate the effects of acidic mine drainage

A

Neutralize

Example: “Alkaline materials were added to neutralize the acidic runoff from the mine site.”

102
Q

To combine or merge separate elements into a unified whole, often used to describe efforts to stabilize or strengthen mine workings.

A

Consolidate

Example: “The engineers consolidated the mine tunnels to prevent collapses.”

103
Q

To spread throughout or penetrate something, often used to describe the movement of fluids through porous materials.

A

Permeate

Example: “The groundwater began to permeate through the soil, carrying contaminants from the mine.”

104
Q

To rearrange or modify the layout or structure of something, often used to describe changes to mine infrastructure.

A

Reconfigure

Example: “The company reconfigured the processing plant to improve efficiency and throughput.”

105
Q

To take action to mitigate or correct environmental damage or contamination caused by mining activities.

A

Remediate

Example: “The company worked to remediate the polluted waterways affected by acid mine drainage.”

106
Q

To remove material from beneath, often used in mining to weaken and collapse overlying rock or ore.

A

Undercut

Example: “The miners undercut the coal seam to facilitate extraction.”

107
Q

To modify or upgrade equipment or infrastructure with new components or features, often to improve performance or compliance with regulations.

A

Retrofit

Example: “The company retrofitted the ventilation system to enhance airflow and reduce energy consumption.”

108
Q

To resolve or bring into agreement conflicting interests or differences, often used in negotiations or discussions.

A

Reconcile

Example: “The stakeholders worked to reconcile their competing priorities and reach a consensus on the mine’s development plan.”

109
Q

The gradual sinking or settling of the Earth’s surface due to underground mining, oil extraction, or natural causes.

A

Subsidence

Example: “Subsidence from underground mining can lead to structural damage to buildings and infrastructure.”

110
Q

The process of excavating vertical or inclined openings in the ground to access underground mining operations.

A

Shaft sinking

Example: “The construction crew completed shaft sinking to reach the lower levels of the mine.”

111
Q

Emitting or relating to the emission of ionizing radiation, often associated with certain mineral deposits.

A

Radioactive

Example: “The uranium ore contained radioactive elements, requiring special handling procedures.”

112
Q

Producing abundant quantities of something, often used to describe rich mineral deposits.

A

Prolific

Example: “The region is known for its prolific gold mines.”

113
Q

Having a pH value less than 7, indicating a higher concentration of hydrogen ions, often used to describe water contaminated by acid mine drainage.

A

Acidic

Example: “The acidic water from the mine had a pH level of 4.5, posing risks to aquatic life.”

114
Q

Not conforming to traditional or standard practices, often used to describe innovative mining techniques.

A

Unconventional

Example: “Unconventional extraction methods are being explored to access deep-seated mineral deposits.”

115
Q

Having small holes or spaces that allow fluids to pass through, often used to describe rock formations.

A

Porous

Example: “Porous sandstone formations are ideal for storing natural gas underground.”

116
Q

Relating to or containing water, often used in discussions of mineral processing.

A

Aqueous

Example: “The aqueous solution was used to dissolve and extract gold from the ore.”

117
Q

Relating to processes occurring on or near the Earth’s surface, often used in discussions of weathering and erosion

A

Exogenic

Example: “Exogenic forces shape the landscape by breaking down and transporting rock material.”

118
Q

In its original, unspoiled condition, often used to describe environments untouched by human activity.

A

Pristine

Example: “The pristine wilderness surrounding the mine is home to diverse wildlife.”

119
Q

To confront or deal with the consequences of one’s actions, often used in situations requiring accountability

A

Face the music

Example: “After the accident, the company had to face the music and address safety concerns.”

120
Q

The importance of paying attention to small or hidden details, often used to emphasize the complexity of a situation.

A

The devil is in the details

Example: “When negotiating contracts, remember that the devil is in the details.”

121
Q

To listen attentively or sympathetically to someone, often used to offer support or assistance.

A

Lend an ear

Example: “If you need advice, I’m here to lend an ear.”

122
Q

Stuck or unable to make progress, often used to describe a project or plan that has failed to move forward.

A

Dead in the water

Example: “Without additional funding, the expansion project is dead in the water.”

123
Q

To stop a problem or issue at an early stage before it becomes more serious.

A

Nip it in the bud

Example: “Let’s address the equipment malfunction now and nip it in the bud.”

124
Q

To manage to survive, especially financially, despite difficulties.

A

Keep one’s head above water

Example: “With rising costs, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep our heads above water.”

125
Q

To adapt and cope with difficult situations or setbacks, often used to describe resilience.

A

Roll with the punches

Example: “In this industry, you have to be able to roll with the punches.”

126
Q

An overall perspective or understanding of a situation, often used to describe taking a broader view of things

A

Bird’s eye view

Example: “To solve the problem, we need to take a bird’s eye view of the entire operation.”

127
Q

To use up or exhaust a finite resource, often used to describe the extraction of minerals or natural resources.

A

Deplete

Example: “Continuous mining operations depleted the coal reserves in the region.”

128
Q

To release or allow the escape of gases or pressure, often used in discussions of mine ventilation.

A

Vent

Example: “The ventilation system was designed to vent harmful gases from underground workings.”

129
Q

To prepare or organize resources for a particular purpose or task, often used in discussions of project management.

A

Mobilize

Example: “The company mobilized its workforce to respond to the emergency.”

130
Q

To recover or save something from loss or destruction, often used in discussions of salvage operations.

A

Salvage

Example: “Efforts were made to salvage equipment damaged in the accident.”

131
Q

Tending to evaporate rapidly or change unpredictably, often used to describe chemicals or substances with high vapor pressures.

A

Volatile

Example: “Volatile organic compounds can pose health risks if released into the atmosphere.”

132
Q

Relating to rocks that have been subjected to heat, pressure, or chemical alteration, often resulting in the formation of new minerals or textures.

A

Metamorphic

Example: “The metamorphic rocks in the region contained valuable minerals such as graphite and garnet.”

133
Q

Chemically combined with oxygen, often used to describe minerals or metals that have undergone oxidation reactions.

A

Oxidized

Example: “The oxidized iron ore formed rusty red deposits on the surface.”

134
Q

In agreement or having a shared understanding of a situation or objective.

A

On the same page

Example: “It’s essential for the project team to be on the same page regarding safety protocols.”

135
Q

To come to a complete stop or standstill, often due to mechanical failure or logistical issues.

A

Grind to a halt

Example: “The equipment breakdown caused production to grind to a halt.”

136
Q

To organize or prepare oneself effectively, often used before embarking on a task or project.

A

Get one’s ducks in a row

Example: “Before presenting the proposal, make sure to get all your ducks in a row.”

137
Q

To take on more responsibilities or commitments than one can manage.

A

Bite off more than one can chew

Example: “Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew with the new project.”

138
Q

To immerse oneself fully in a challenging or unfamiliar situation without hesitation.

A

Dive into the deep end

Example: “She decided to dive into the deep end and take on the leadership role.”

139
Q

A metaphorical expression indicating hope or relief after a period of difficulty or adversity.

A

Light at the end of the tunnel

Example: “Despite setbacks, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.”

140
Q

To deal with a problem or issue only when it arises, rather than worrying about it in advance.

A

Cross that bridge when one comes to it

Example: “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it and address the staffing shortage as needed.”

141
Q

To restore or revive something to a youthful or active state, often used in discussions of ecosystem restoration or reclamation.

A

Rejuvenate

Example: “The reforestation project aimed to rejuvenate degraded landscapes.”

142
Q

To combine or unite multiple elements into a single entity, often used in discussions of mergers or consolidation.

A

Amalgamate

Example: “The two companies decided to amalgamate their operations to increase efficiency.”

143
Q

To expand or vary the range of products, services, or activities, often to reduce dependence on a single source

A

Diversify

Example: “The company diversified its portfolio to include renewable energy projects.”

144
Q

To stimulate or inspire action or change, often used in discussions of motivation or leadership.

A

Galvanize

Example: “The inspiring speech galvanized the team to work toward their goals.”

145
Q

The negative consequences or effects of mining activities on the environment, communities, or human health.

A

Adverse impact

Example: “The environmental impact assessment identified several adverse impacts of the proposed mining project.”

146
Q

Layers or beds of rock, often used to describe the geological structure or composition of underground formations.

A

Strata

Example: “The geologist analyzed the strata to determine the best location for drilling.”

147
Q

A method of extracting oil or gas from underground rock formations by injecting high-pressure fluid to create fractures and release the hydrocarbons.

A

Hydraulic fracturing

Example: “Hydraulic fracturing revolutionized the extraction of natural gas from shale formations.”

148
Q

The sudden collapse or movement of rock material from a cliff face, slope, or excavation, often posing hazards to workers and infrastructure.

A

Rockfall

Example: “Rockfall protection measures were installed to safeguard workers at the mine site.”

149
Q

Dangerously unstable or insecure, often used to describe working conditions in mines with high risks of collapse or accidents.

A

Precarious

Example: “The miners faced precarious conditions while working in the unstable underground stope.”

150
Q

Distinct or fundamentally different, often used to describe elements or factors that do not align or correspond.

A

Disparate

Example: “The environmental impacts of mining and agriculture are disparate but interconnected.”

151
Q

Belonging naturally or inherently, often used to describe the inherent properties or qualities of a mineral deposit.

A

Intrinsic

Example: “The intrinsic value of the ore deposit justified further exploration and development.”

152
Q

Altered or worn down by exposure to the elements, often used to describe the surface of rocks or mineral deposits.

A

Weathered

Example: “The weathered outcrop indicated the presence of mineralization beneath the surface.”

153
Q

Dependent on or conditioned by something else, often used to describe agreements or arrangements with uncertain outcomes

A

Contingent

Example: “The success of the project was contingent on securing funding from investors.”

154
Q

A situation in which a desired outcome is impossible to achieve because of a contradictory or paradoxical rule or condition.

A

Catch-22

Example: “The company faced a catch-22: they needed experience to win contracts, but they couldn’t gain experience without contracts.”

155
Q

To fall behind or lose progress compared to others, often used in competitive contexts.

A

Lose ground

Example: “The company began to lose ground to competitors due to delays in product development.”

156
Q

To finalize or secure something definitively, often used in negotiations or agreements.

A

Nail down

Example: “We need to nail down the details of the contract before proceeding.”

157
Q

A mineral processing technique that separates valuable minerals from gangue minerals by selectively attaching air bubbles to the mineral particles.

A

Flotation

Example: “Flotation is commonly used to concentrate sulfide ores such as copper and lead.”

158
Q

The estimation of the quantity and quality of mineral resources present in a deposit based on geological data, sampling, and statistical methods.

A

Resource estimation

Example: “Resource estimation provided the basis for evaluating the economic potential of the mineral deposit.”

159
Q

Resistant to penetration or passage, often used to describe barriers or liners that prevent fluid migration.

A

Impervious

Example: “The impervious clay layer acted as a natural barrier to groundwater flow.”

160
Q

To reduce the concentration or strength of a substance by adding a solvent or diluent, often used in discussions of water treatment or chemical processes.

A

Dilute

Example: “The wastewater was diluted before discharge to meet regulatory standards.”

161
Q

To initiate or stimulate activity or progress, often used to describe efforts to revitalize or kick-start a project.

A

Jump-start

Example: “The new investment helped jump-start the stalled mining project.”

162
Q

To start over or rethink a plan or strategy after it has failed or proven ineffective.

A

Back to the drawing board

Example: “The initial design didn’t meet our requirements, so it’s back to the drawing board.”

163
Q

To give up or surrender, often used when facing insurmountable obstacles or challenges.

A

Throw in the towel

Example: “After months of negotiations, they finally threw in the towel and walked away from the deal.”

164
Q

To gather or accumulate a large quantity of something, often used to describe the collection of data or resources.

A

Amass

Example: “The research team amassed a vast amount of geological data from field surveys.”

165
Q

To assign or distribute resources, funds, or responsibilities to different purposes or areas, often used in discussions of project management.

A

Reallocate

Example: “The company decided to reallocate funds from exploration to mine development.”