Question

Which statements accurately compare the environmental impact of surface mining to the environmental impact of underground mining? Select the two correct answers.(1 point)

Surface mining causes more destruction of land ecosystems than underground mining.

Underground mining causes more issues with dust and particulates than surface mining.

Both surface mining and underground mining risk causing severe water pollution.

The risk of sinkholes is higher in surface mining than in underground mining.

There is a higher risk of release of dangerous gases in surface mining than in underground mining.

Answer 1

Correct answers:
- Surface mining causes more destruction of land ecosystems than underground mining.
- Both surface mining and underground mining risk causing severe water pollution.

Reason: Surface methods remove vegetation and topsoil over large areas, causing greater habitat/landscape destruction. Both types can contaminate surface and groundwater (acid mine drainage, heavy metals, runoff).