Question

Which mining method is more likely to disrupt local ecosystems?
Select an answer

A.
Deep mining disrupts ecosystems more than surface mining.


B.
Both methods have the same impact on ecosystems.


C.
Surface mining is more likely to disrupt local ecosystems.


D.
Neither method disrupts ecosystems.

Answer 1

C. Surface mining is more likely to disrupt local ecosystems.

Brief reason: surface mining removes vegetation and topsoil, alters landscapes, and causes greater habitat loss, erosion, sedimentation, and runoff compared with most underground (deep) mining, which has less surface footprint.