3.3: The Formation and Mining of Minerals

Pg. 68-71IN: How do minerals form, and where do we get them?

Minerals form under different conditions Minerals make up the rocks of the

crust and so form in the same three ways that rocks do-sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous.

The environment can be deep underground or near the surface and that determines its properties.

Sedimentary formations Evaporating saltwater-salts and

minerals are left behind which crystallize into gypsum and halite, as well as limestones calcite and dolomite.

HaliteGypsum calcite dolomite

Metamorphic Rocks Changes in pressure temperature can

change the chemical makeup of a rock forming minerals such as garnet, graphite, hematite, mica, magnetite and talc.

garnet graphite mica hematite

Igneous Mineral formations Hot-water solutions: gold, copper,

sulfur and pyrite. Pegmatites: topaz and tourmaline Plutons: mica, feldspar and quartz

What is mined?Ore is a mineral deposit large

enough and pure enough to be mined for a profit.

MiningSurface mining – the removal

of minerals or other materials at or near the Earth’s surface. It includes open pits, strip mines and quarries.

A copper mine in Chile

MiningDeep mining - removing minerals deep

within the crust. Includes mining for coal and diamonds.

Environmental Effects Mining can destroy habitats of plants

and animals. Waste products can into water

sources and cause problems far from the mine.

Responsible MiningReclamation – the process of

returning land to its original state after mining is completed

How can we prevent the harmful effects of mining?

Minerals are nonrenewable resources which means that they will not replace themselves on the Earth within thousands or even millions of years if ever!

Out: Why is it important to mine responsibly?