Mining & Mine Rehabilitation

Question 1

Open Cut Mining

Answer 1

Mineral deposits are at the surface and spread over a large area.

Question 2

Underground Mining

Answer 2

Used when deposits are deeper in the ground/concentrated in pockets.

Question 3

Dredging

Answer 3

Used when minerals are found in sand, and a large lake can be dug and filled with water.

Question 4

Leach Mining

Answer 4

Fluid that will dissolve minerals injected through drill holes and pumped out through recovery pipes.

Question 5

Processing Ore Steps

Answer 5

1. Crushing
2. Magnetic minerals are removed by magnets
3. Minerals are concentrated
4. Desired metal is extracted

Question 6

What are some steps taken to rehabilitate mines?

Answer 6

-Replace soil in the area
-Plant native plants
-Make sure to minimize number of tailings in area

Question 7

Tailings

Answer 7

Toxic waste left behind after mining/processing ore. They can contain acid or poison chemicals.