APES Impacts of Mining

Front

What is the main purpose of the Clean Water Act in the context of mining?

Back

To prevent water pollution from mining activities.

Front

What is black lung disease?

Back

A respiratory disease caused by inhaling coal dust, common among miners.

Front

How does subsurface mining differ from surface mining?

Back

Subsurface mining involves extracting minerals from deep underground, while surface mining involves removing soil and rock above the mineral deposits.

Front

What is the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977?

Back

Legislation that requires land to be minimally disturbed and reclaimed after coal mining.

Front

What are the environmental impacts of mining?

Back

Mining can lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

Front

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

Back

Renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time, while non-renewable resources are finite and cannot be replaced once depleted.

Front

What is acid mine drainage?

Back

The outflow of acidic water from mining sites, which can contaminate local water sources.

Front

What are the health risks associated with mining?

Back

Health risks include respiratory diseases, skin diseases, and exposure to hazardous materials.

Front

What is reclamation in mining?

Back

The process of restoring land after mining activities to a natural or economically usable state.

Front

What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in mining?

Back

The EPA regulates mining activities to protect the environment and public health.