Discuss 2 dangers associated with underground mining and 2 dangers associated surface mining.(4 points)
Underground mining:
1. Safety hazards: One major danger associated with underground mining is the risk of cave-ins or rock falls. Due to the nature of underground mining, where tunnels are excavated to extract minerals, the stability of the tunnels can be compromised. This can lead to the collapse of walls or ceilings, posing a serious threat to miners working in these areas. Additionally, the use of heavy machinery can create vibrations that further weaken the stability of the underground tunnels, increasing the risk of accidents.
2. Health risks: Another danger associated with underground mining is the exposure of miners to harmful gases and dust. In underground mining operations, minerals are often embedded in rocks that contain hazardous substances such as silica, asbestos, coal dust, or radon. Breathing in these substances over a prolonged period can lead to various respiratory diseases, such as silicosis or black lung disease. Miners are also at risk of exposure to toxic gases, such as methane or carbon monoxide, which can cause asphyxiation or explosions.
Surface mining:
1. Environmental impact: Surface mining often leads to significant environmental damage, posing a danger to ecosystems and local communities. This type of mining involves the removal of topsoil and vegetation, which can lead to soil erosion and loss of habitat for plant and animal species. Furthermore, the use of heavy machinery and explosives can generate excessive dust and noise pollution. The extraction and processing of minerals can also result in water pollution when toxic chemicals used in the process seep into water sources, contaminating them.
2. Land subsidence: Surface mining can cause land subsidence, particularly in areas where large-scale removal of minerals or resources occurs. This phenomenon happens when the ground sinks or collapses due to the removal of underground resources, leaving hollow spaces below the surface. This can lead to the formation of sinkholes or the collapse of infrastructure, posing a danger to nearby communities and their infrastructure, such as buildings, roads, and pipelines. Land subsidence can also affect water sources, leading to changes in groundwater levels or the contamination of aquifers.