Minerals
What is a mineral?
A naturally occurring pure non-living substance found in the earth’s crust
What is the method used to mine surface minerals?
Strip Mining
Name one negative impact of mining on the environment.
Pollution, habitat destruction, waste production, etc.
Why is mining important to Canada's economy?
Canada exports many minerals and relies on mining for economic growth
What type of mineral is potash, and where is it mined in Canada?
Non-Metallic, Saskatchewan
Name a metallic mineral
Gold, copper, iron, etc.
What technique is used for minerals located deep underground?
What happens to the land when open pit mining is used?
The surface layers are removed, altering the landscape
What happens to mining jobs when a mine shuts down?
Workers lose their jobs, and the town can be affected economically
Which province in Canada produces the most gold?
Ontario
Which type of minerals are used for their physical properties like hardness or color?
Non-metallic minerals
What mining technique involves removing surface layers of rock and soil?
Why is air and water pollution a concern in mining?
Waste from mining can pollute nearby air and water sources
Why are Canada's mineral reserves at risk of being exhausted?
The highest-quality minerals are being mined out
What is one of Canada's major mining exports?
gold, copper, nickel, zinc
What is a mineral reserve?
A deposit of minerals that is economical to mine
What is smelting used for in mining?
Separating minerals from waste rock
What is tailings in mining?
The waste materials left after extracting the minerals
What issue arises when minerals are refined and manufactured outside of Canada?
It can lead to job loss in Canada
Why is job loss a concern in Canada's mining industry?
Many minerals are refined outside of Canada, reducing domestic employment
Name a fossil fuel mineral.
Coal
What is the waste material produced during smelting called?
Slag
What environmental challenge does a mining company face when a mine closes?
Rehabilitating or restoring the land to its original state
What is one way a town can survive economically after a mine closes?
Developing an alternative economic base
What is Canada’s most valuable metallic mineral?
Gold