Question

Which mining method typically leads to more air pollution?

Select an answer

A.
Neither method causes air pollution.


B.
Both methods have the same level of air pollution.


C.
Deep mining leads to more air pollution.


D.
Surface mining typically leads to more air pollution.

Answer 1

D. Surface mining typically leads to more air pollution.

Surface mining (open-pit, strip, mountaintop removal) exposes large areas of rock, involves extensive blasting and heavy machinery, and generates large amounts of dust and particulates and exhaust emissions, so it generally produces more air pollution than deep (underground) mining.