0
Still curious? Ask our experts.
Chat with our AI personalities
Fran
Blake
TaigaAbove-ground mining involves extracting resources from the Earth's surface, while underground mining involves extracting resources from below the Earth's surface by digging tunnels and shafts. Above-ground mining is typically used for shallow deposits and involves environmental impacts such as habitat disruption, while underground mining is used for deeper deposits and can pose safety hazards for workers due to confined spaces and potential cave-ins.
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
Do miners mine above ground?
No, miners typically mine underground to extract resources such as coal, metals, and minerals. Mining above ground, also known as surface mining, is done for materials like sand, gravel, and stone.
Why do they mine underground instead of above ground?
Mining underground provides access to deeper and richer mineral deposits that are often more valuable. It also allows for better control over ventilation and environmental impacts compared to open-pit mining. Additionally, underground mining can be safer for workers as they are protected from surface hazards and inclement weather.
What is mining subsidence?
Mining subsidence refers to the gradual sinking or lowering of the ground surface above an underground mine due to the collapse of voids created by the extraction of minerals. This can lead to structural damage to buildings and infrastructure situated above the mined area. Measures such as support structures or backfilling can be implemented to mitigate the effects of mining subsidence.
What is the difference between a mine and a quarry?
A mine is a site where minerals or metals are extracted through underground excavation or surface mining, while a quarry is a type of mine where dimension stone, rock, construction aggregate, sand, gravel, or slate is excavated from the ground. Mines are typically focused on extracting valuable minerals, whereas quarries are usually used for extracting building materials.
What is the difference between 'quarrying' and 'mining?
Quarrying takes place at a quarry, a relatively small open pit mine where the usual product is dimension stone for construction or decorative purposes. Mining takes place at a mine, which may be of the open pit, surface, or underground variety, where the usual product is a valuable ore or coal, not normally dimension stone.
