Reclamation is the process of
A) removing coal from a subsurface seam.
B) extracting ore minerals from gangue minerals.
C) returning land to its original or better condition after mining.
D) protecting the habitats of local wildlife.
I think the answer is C
Yes, C.
You are correct. Reclamation is the process of returning land to its original or better condition after mining.
To determine the correct answer, let's go through the options and understand them one by one:
A) Removing coal from a subsurface seam: This option refers to the process of extracting coal from underground. It is not the definition of reclamation, so it is not the correct answer.
B) Extracting ore minerals from gangue minerals: This option describes the process of separating valuable minerals from non-valuable minerals (gangue). While it is related to mining, it does not precisely define reclamation. So, it is not the correct answer.
C) Returning land to its original or better condition after mining: This option correctly defines reclamation. It refers to the restoration of land to its original state or an improved condition after mining activities have concluded. Reclamation includes measures to prevent erosion, rebuild soil, restore vegetation, and ensure the land's stability. Given that this option accurately describes reclamation, it is the most suitable answer.
D) Protecting the habitats of local wildlife: While this option is important and related to environmental conservation, it does not solely define reclamation. Reclamation encompasses broader activities beyond protecting habitats, such as overall land restoration. Hence, this option is not the correct answer.
Therefore, based on the explanations above, the correct answer is C) returning land to its original or better condition after mining.