Compare surface, subsurface, and placer mining in terms of damage to the environment.

The most damaging mining process is surface mining because it permanently damages the land. The less harmful process is placer mining because, in this process, continuous recycling of water occurs. Subsurface mining shows an intermediate effect by releasing by-products in the environment.

Further Explanation:

Surface mining is highly visible because it removes surface vegetation and permanently changes the topography. It drastically and permanently alters the subsurface geological structure. Also, disrupt surface and subsurface hydrologic regimes. Surface mining affects plant life and destroys them. Sub-surface mine affect the environment but less than surface mines. They release by-products in the environment. It is an extraction of ores and minerals from the underground. It is less effective in the environment and produces fewer waste products.

The mining process causes a deleterious effect on the health of individuals because of the presence of metal in water and the environment. Placer mining is achieved by open pit method. It does not harm the environment because water is being recycled.

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Answer Details:

Grade: High School  

Subject: Biology

Chapter: Ecology

Keywords:

Surface mining, placer mining, environment, extraction, open pit, a waste product, remove vegetation, deleterious effect, subsurface.

All three types of mines cause some damage to the environment. Surface mines are the most damaging to the environment, because they cause the greatest amount of change to the land. Surface mines involve the removal of earth to extract minerals, often leaving a gaping hole behind. Subsurface mines have less permanent damage to the environment, although they still produce many byproducts that are introduced into the environment. Placer mining can be less damaging to the environment than surface mines, as the sediment is returned to the water after the minerals have been extracted.

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