Understanding Mining and Resources

Front

What is an alloy?

Back

An alloy is a mixture of two or more elements, where at least one is a metal, designed to enhance certain properties such as strength, malleability, or resistance to corrosion.

Front

Why are alloys used in metal production?

Back

Alloys are used to enhance the properties of metals, such as strength and malleability.

Front

What is a gemstone?

Back

A gemstone is a precious or semi-precious mineral that is cut and polished for use in jewelry and decoration.

Front

Give an example of a gemstone.

Back

Topaz is an example of a gemstone.

Front

What is the primary goal of mining?

Back

The primary goal of mining is to locate areas of concentrated resources.

Front

What is an ore?

Back

An ore is a naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted profitably.

Front

Provide an example of an ore.

Back

Coltan is an example of an ore.

Front

What are tailings in mining?

Back

Tailings are the materials left over after the process of separating the valuable fraction from the uneconomic fraction of an ore.

Front

What is a major environmental concern associated with tailings?

Back

A major environmental concern associated with tailings is that they contribute to pollution.

Front

What is the process of extracting minerals from the earth called?

Back

The process of extracting minerals from the earth is called mining.