Mining and Quarrying Geology
Mining and quarrying geology is the scientific study of rocks, minerals, metals and other mineral resources that occur naturally on earth. This includes the research and exploration of underground mines, quarries, and other mineral and non-metallic mineral deposits. The primary aim of the subject is to identify, evaluate, and manage such resources in a sustainable manner.
Mining and quarrying geology is an important field of study and is used in a variety of ways. It has been used to determine the location of valuable mineral deposits, assess the quantity and quality of such deposits, develop efficient methods for their extraction, identify potential environmental impacts and recommend ways to reduce or mitigate such impacts. Mining and quarrying geology also seeks to develop methods for processing and refining minerals and metals, improve geological mapping and geological models of mineral deposits, and conduct research into unconventional sources of minerals and metals.
Mining and quarrying geology relies on many scientific disciplines. This includes knowledge of sedimentology, geochemistry, mineralogy, geophysics and geotechnical engineering. Knowledge of these disciplines allows geologists to properly analyze, understand and interpret the geologic environment that is pertinent to their projects. It also allows them to identify potential sources of minerals and metals, assess their quality and quantity, and develop best practice protocols to ensure their extraction and refinement are conducted in a safe and responsible way.
Mining and quarrying geology includes a broad range of topics and issues. This includes the exploration of landforms, the drainage of water, the mapping and analysis of the features of the land surface, and the evaluation and management of the resources. It also includes the assessment of the mineral and non-metallic mineral deposits that may have economic value. Furthermore, mining and quarrying geology considers such topics as the effects of mining and quarrying activities on the environment, regional planning, and the preservation of geological sites.
Mining and quarrying geology involves a lot of fieldwork involving the examination of rocks and minerals as well as other geological materials and structures. This work is conducted indoors as well as outdoors and involves the use of hand tools such as augers and hammers. Furthermore, the use of precision NAVIGABLE GPS (GNSS) technology and geophysical methods such as magnetometer surveys and gravity surveys allow geologists to have very accurate and expansive surveys of the terrain.
Mining and quarrying geology requires the use of a suite of methods that are used to evaluate and manage resources. These are often called integrated resource management or IRMS. These methods must ensure that mining and quarrying practices are conducted safely and responsibly in order to protect human health and the environment. They also allow for the sustainable management of a regions resources.
In addition to these technical aspects, mining and quarrying geology also involves other skills such as environmental law, risk management, public outreach, and public administration. The goal is to ensure that the practices associated with mining and quarrying are conducted in an ethical and responsible way that addresses the needs of the people and businesses affected by them. Furthermore, these skills must also be complemented with expertise in finance, marketing, and business in order to maximize the success of the operations while minimizing their impact on the environment.
In conclusion, mining and quarrying geology is a multi-disciplinary field of study with important applications in a number of areas. It is used to explore, identify, and manage underground resources in a sustainable manner. In addition to its technical aspects, it also requires knowledge of other disciplines such as law, risk management, and public outreach in order to ensure that the practices associated with mining and quarrying are conducted in a responsible and ethical way.
