Saturday 1 October 2011

MINING ENGG

Simplified world active mining map (click to enlarge)
ChuquicamataChile, site of the largest circumference and second deepest open pitcopper mine in the world.
Mining is the extraction of valuable minerals or other geological materials from the earth, from an ore body,vein or (coal) seam. The term also includes the removal of soil. Materials recovered by mining include base metalsprecious metalsironuraniumcoaldiamondslimestoneoil shalerock salt and potash. Any material that cannot be grown through agricultural processes, or created artificially in a laboratory or factory, is usually mined. Mining in a wider sense comprises extraction of any non-renewable resource (e.g.,petroleumnatural gas, or even water).
Mining of stone and metal has been done since pre-historic times. Modern mining processes involveprospecting for ore bodies, analysis of the profit potential of a proposed mine, extraction of the desired materials and finally reclamation of the land to prepare it for other uses once the mine is closed.
The nature of mining processes creates a potential negative impact on the environment both during the mining operations and for years after the mine is closed. This impact has led to most of the world's nations adopting regulations to moderate the negative effects of mining operations. Safety has long been a concern as well, though modern practices have improved safety in mines significantly.


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