mining processes 10/19/11. review of geology terms geology and geologic processes catastrophic...

Mining Processes10/19/11

Review of Geology Terms

Geology and Geologic processes

Catastrophic events: Volcanoes, Earthquakes,Tsunamis

Plate Tectonics – Continental drift, Pangaea

Plate boundaries: convergent, divergent, transform

Types of rocks in rock cycle: Sedimentary, metamorphic, igneous

Relative dating by the Law of Superposition vs. Radiometric Dating

Weathering, Erosion and Deposition

Non-renewable resource-fossil fuels

What is a mineral resource?

An element or chemical formed by geological processes.

What are the two types of minerals?

Metals or Non-metals

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Metals vs. Non-metals

What is an ore? A rock with a high mineral content,

which we extract by mining.Higher grade = more mineral content

What are reserves?

Locations on earth where mineral supplies are high, so we can mine there.

What is a life cycle analysis of a metal?

Ecological impacts associated with a mineral from extraction to disposal.

What is surface mining?

Mining of shallow mineral resources.

What types of surface mining are there?

Open pit mining

Strip mining

Contour mining

Mountain top removal

What is open pit mining?

Big holes in the earth for removing ores.

What is strip mining?

A strip of earth is removed, minerals are extracted, overburden (soil+rock) is replaced, process is repeated.

What is contour strip mining?

Cut terraces on the side of a hill and extract minerals (coal).

What is mountain top removal?

Remove the top of a mountain, extract minerals (coal).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPixjCneseE

What is sub-surface mining?

Deep minerals are removed through tunnels and shafts.

Mining Pollution and Restoration10/22/11

What are the environmental impacts of mining coal?

Acidification of surrounding soil

Acidification of groundwater or adjacent bodies of water

Reduced plant growth/animal distribution ( biodiversity)

Corrosion of roads and drainage culvets

Increased soil solubility and transport of heavy metals (pollutants)

Environmental impacts of USING coal?

Acidic deposition

Ecosystem degradation due to acidic soil

Global warming

Industrial/photochemical smog

Heavy metal fall out (Hg and As)

Leachate into water

Human respiratory illness

Will coal use in the US continue?

Yes, it will increase! Low cost! It’s cheap Higher Availability than other fossil fuels in the US Suitable replacement for oil (which is running out)

Reclamation/Restoration after contour strip mining?

Recontour the land

Replace topsoil and/or nutrients

Replant native vegetation

Monitor for 5-10 years to ensure secondary succession