Chapter 9: Problem 10

How does surface mining on flat ground compare to surface mining in mountainous areas in terms of environmental damage?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Surface mining in mountainous areas generally causes more significant environmental damage compared to flat ground mining, due to challenges in waste disposal, increased risks of erosion and landslides, and greater long-term impacts on land, water, and air quality. While both types of mining present environmental risks, the unique characteristics of mountainous terrains exacerbate these issues.

Step by step solution

1. Define Surface Mining

Surface mining is a method used to extract minerals and other geological materials that are found close to the earth's surface. This type of mining involves removing the overlying soil and rock to access the minerals. It is most commonly used for coal extraction but can also be used for other materials such as metals, aggregates, and building stones.

2. Surface Mining on Flat Ground

In flat terrains, surface mining typically involves clearing the land, removing the topsoil, and excavating the layers of mineral deposits. The land is then restored to its natural state after the mining process is complete. The level of environmental damage in flat terrains usually depends on the size of the mine site, the type of mineral being extracted, and the mining and reclamation techniques employed.

3. Surface Mining in Mountainous Areas

In mountainous regions, surface mining is conducted similarly to flat terrain mining, but the techniques used are adapted to the steep slopes. Mountain mining often involves more severe environmental damage, such as deforestation, erosion, landslides, and changes in local water supplies. These factors can cause significant long-term harm to the ecosystem and surrounding habitats.

4. Compare Waste Disposal Methods

Waste disposal is a significant factor that determines the level of environmental damage caused by surface mining. On flat ground, waste materials such as overburden and tailings can be more easily disposed of and contained in designated waste sites. However, in mountainous areas, waste materials are more likely to be deposited at higher elevations or in waterways, increasing the risk of contamination, erosion, and landslides.

5. Consider Long-term Impact on Land, Water, and Air Quality

Surface mining on flat ground generally has a lesser long-term impact on land, water, and air quality compared to mountainous area mining. This is because reclamation and restoration efforts are often more effective and easier to implement in flat terrains. In contrast, the steep slopes and unstable geology of mountainous regions make it more difficult to repair damaged ecosystems and prevent ongoing damage.

6. Conclusion

Overall, surface mining on flat ground tends to cause less environmental damage compared to surface mining in mountainous areas. The main differences lie in waste disposal, erosion and landslide risks, and the long-term impact on land, water, and air quality. Although mining in any form poses environmental risks, the challenges associated with mining in mountainous terrains significantly add to the negative environmental effects.

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How does surface mining on flat ground compare to surface mining in mountainous areas in terms of environmental damage?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Define Surface Mining

2. Surface Mining on Flat Ground

3. Surface Mining in Mountainous Areas

4. Compare Waste Disposal Methods

5. Consider Long-term Impact on Land, Water, and Air Quality

6. Conclusion

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