Question

Which of the following describes the difference between surface mining and subsurface mining?

1) Surface mining digs large holes at the earth's surface and subsurface mining creates tunnels deep into the earth
2) Surface mining creates deep tunnels into the earth and subsurface mining injects chemicals into the rock
3) Subsurface mining creates tunnels deep into the earth
4) Subsurface mining digs large holes in the earth's surface

Answer 1

Surface mining involves digging large holes at the earth's surface, while subsurface mining creates tunnels deep into the earth.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between surface mining and subsurface mining lies in the location of the mining process. Surface mining involves digging large holes at the earth's surface to extract minerals or resources, while subsurface mining creates tunnels deep into the earth for the same purpose.

For example, in surface mining, large machinery is used to remove layers of soil, rock, or vegetation to access the desired minerals. This method is commonly used for mining coal, gold, and copper.

In contrast, subsurface mining involves the creation of tunnels or shafts deep within the earth's crust to reach mineral deposits. This method is used when minerals are located at depths below the surface, such as underground coal mining or mining for oil and gas.