Module 9_ Question Set - Mineral Resources (1)
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School
Miami University *
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Course
121
Subject
Geology
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
Pages
2
Uploaded by ProfessorKomodoDragonPerson504
1.
In terms of origin, describe at least one unique characteristic that differentiates
between:
Igneous rocks - Igneous rocks are unique because they are formed when lava or magma
cools after a volcanic eruption.
Sedimentary rocks - Sedimentary rocks are unique because they are formed from
sediments that are bonded together from rocks breaking apart due to weathering and
erosion.
Metamorphic rocks - Metamorphic rocks are unique because they occur in a process
when the rocks are exposed to extreme heat or pressure.
2.
Describe the difference between metallic and non-metallic minerals using at least
three characteristics. (
Do not use "One has metal in it."
)
Both metallic and non-metallic minerals are considered non-fuels, although they have a
few differentiating characteristics. Metallic minerals, for example, are those which
display malleability, ductility, and thermal or electrical conductivity. These minerals may
be shaped, molded, or rolled into long thin shapes (such as wire, for example).
Non-metallic minerals are those non-fuel minerals that do not have the above
characteristics of metallic minerals (such as malleability, ductility, conductivity, etc.)
3.
Describe, in terms of the mechanism (process), the dangers, and the environmental
impacts, involved with:
Surface mining - Surface mining includes the minings of strip, open pit, placer, and
solution, and the dangers from surface mining mostly originate from the standard risks of
working with heavy equipment. There are also more environmental impacts with surface
mining.
Subsurface mining - Subsurface mining disturbs aquifers and exposes miners to great
danger from explosions, cave-ins, and respiratory diseases. Additionally, tailings from
both surface and subsurface mining have significant health and environmental impacts.
Acid mine drainage - Acid mine drainage pollutes the surrounding area, with placer
mining disrupting the stream flow and destroying aquatic ecosystems by producing
massive amounts of erosion.
4.
Describe at least three different ways to make mineral use more sustainable.
One way that we can make mineral use more sustainable is by recycling more of the
materials used in the process. We can also make it more sustainable by using less fossil
fuels, especially to keep them in abundance for a longer period of time rather than using
them up, regardless of the generations after us. We could also attempt to utilize less
minerals in our daily lives and activities, such as practicing more sustainable habits.
5.
Describe two of the ways volcanoes may be formed.
Volcanoes may be formed through molten rock, where lava is cooled over time in the
same area continuously and an accumulation forms, creating a volcano. Another way
volcanoes can form is through the shifting of tectonic plates, where they shift and create
space.
6.
Describe two distinct and different environmental impacts from the processing of
ores.
The processing of ores can result in environmental impacts such as extraction and
smelting. The process of extraction produces pollution on land, and in the air and water,
while smelting can have a deadly impact on human health through air and water
pollution.
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