Mining Flashcards
Under what conditions would you build a shaft (underground) mine?
When the mineral ores are located deep in the earth
Under what conditions would you build a strip mine?
When minerals such as coal or oil sands are located in horizontal layers near the surface
Under what conditions would you build an open pit mine?
When minerals are located near the surface but may extend deep into the earth
Define, give examples of and describe the use of metallic minerals
When refined they form metals. Mined for their beauty and rareness. AKA precious metals. Often mined for their strength or other unique properties such as conducting electricity.
Ex:
- Gold, silver and platinum = valued for their strength
- Copper = valued for making electrical wiring
- Nickel = valued when mixed with iron to create rust-resistant steel
Define, give examples of and describe the use of fossil fuels
Fossil fuels are non renewable and burned to produce energy. They are formed When small organisms fall to the ocean or lake floors after dying, and are covered with sediment before decomposing. Additional layers of sediment settle, creating heat and pressure which produce hydrocarbons.
Define, give examples of and describe the use of industrial minerals
Not metallic but process other useful qualities.
Asbestos - Used to protect against fire and heat
Potash - Salt-like material used to make fertilizer
Gypsum- Used to make drywall sheets
Soapstone - Uses to make Inuit sculptures
Diamonds - Used to make cutting tools and jewelry
Gravel - Major ingredient in cement
Explain the process of milling and smelting
Mined ore is mixed with waste rock that needs to be separated in order to remove the metal. Milling involves removing the waste rock to create ore concentrate. Smelting involves combining the ore concentrate and flux and joining the waste rock to form slag. Slag is lighter than the liquid metal and rises to the top. The metal is poured into molds. The remaining tailings are disposed of.
