Mineral Extraction: Crash Course Geography

The video explores the intricate stories behind devices and the global impact of mineral extraction, focusing on cobalt and lithium. It discusses the environmental and socio-economic challenges of mining, particularly in the DRC, and the role of non-renewable resources. The video also highlights the issue of e-waste and efforts to innovate sustainable solutions.

What is a key reason why mineral extraction is significant globally?

• It has no impact on the environment.

• It is a renewable resource.

• It is only found in the United States.

• It is essential for the production of everyday devices.

Which type of geographer studies the formation of landforms and mineral distribution?

• Urban geographers

• Cultural geographers

• Political geographers

• Geomorphologists

Why are non-renewable resources considered limited in supply?

• They are inexpensive to extract.

• They can be easily replenished.

• They are found everywhere.

• They renew on large geologic time frames.

What is a common characteristic of mining jobs in isolated areas?

• Minimal environmental impact

• Abundant job opportunities

• Low wages and high risk

• High wages and low risk

What percentage of the world's cobalt is supplied by the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

• 50%

• 90%

• 70%

• 30%

What is a major consequence of illegal mining in the DRC?

• Improved worker conditions

• Decreased environmental impact

• Funding of militias and conflict

• Increased government oversight

What is a potential benefit of classifying cobalt as a conflict mineral?

• Ensuring cobalt does not fund conflict

• Lowering the price of cobalt

• Increased mining profits

• Simplifying the mining process

What is a significant challenge in recycling electronic waste?

• Abundance of rare earth elements

• High cost of extraction processes

• Lack of available technology

• Ease of recycling

What is an example of an externality related to electronic waste?

• The cost of the product

• The manufacturing process

• The price of raw materials

• The environmental cleanup cost

What is a potential future source of metals according to scientists?

• Deep-sea mining

• Landfills

• Asteroid mining

• Desert sands