Underground mining

Definition

Underground mining is the process of extracting valuable minerals or other geological materials from beneath the Earth's surface. This method is often used when minerals are located deep underground, making surface mining impractical or inefficient. By accessing resources through shafts and tunnels, underground mining allows for the recovery of high-grade ores that may not be economically viable to extract using surface techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Underground mining can be more expensive than surface mining due to the need for specialized equipment and safety measures.
2. It allows for the extraction of minerals in areas where surface mining would cause significant environmental damage or be unfeasible.
3. Common minerals extracted through underground mining include gold, silver, coal, and precious metals.
4. Safety is a major concern in underground mining, with risks such as cave-ins, flooding, and exposure to harmful gases.
5. Modern underground mining techniques often incorporate advanced technologies like automated machinery and real-time monitoring systems to improve efficiency and safety.

Review Questions

• What are the main reasons for choosing underground mining over surface mining in certain scenarios?
  • Underground mining is often preferred when valuable minerals are located deep below the Earth's surface where surface mining is not practical. This method allows for the extraction of high-grade ores without disturbing large areas of land, which minimizes environmental impact. Additionally, in regions where surface mining could lead to significant ecological damage or where land use restrictions apply, underground mining presents a more viable option.
• How does the room and pillar method function in underground mining, and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
  • The room and pillar method involves excavating rooms of ore while leaving pillars of material intact to support the mine's roof. This technique is advantageous because it allows for the efficient extraction of ore while maintaining structural integrity in the mine. However, one disadvantage is that not all mined material can be retrieved, leading to potential resource loss. Additionally, if pillars are improperly designed or weakened over time, there is a risk of collapse.
• Evaluate how technological advancements have impacted safety and efficiency in underground mining operations.
  • Technological advancements have significantly transformed underground mining by improving both safety and efficiency. Innovations such as automated machinery reduce human exposure to hazardous conditions while enhancing production rates. Real-time monitoring systems allow for better tracking of environmental conditions within mines, which helps prevent accidents. As a result, these technologies not only streamline operations but also create a safer working environment for miners, ultimately leading to higher productivity and lower operational risks.

Related terms

Shaft: A vertical or near-vertical tunnel that provides access to underground mines and facilitates the transport of materials, equipment, and workers.

Drift Mining: A type of underground mining where horizontal tunnels are constructed along the mineral seams to extract resources.

Room and Pillar: An underground mining method that involves excavating rooms of ore while leaving pillars of material to support the roof.