How Ore Minerals are Found, Mined and Processed for Human Use (Earth Science Week 3 - Day 2)

Summary

In this Earth Science module, learners delve into the discovery, mining, and processing of minerals for human use. Instructor Anna Marie Arsenal guides students through the importance of minerals in society, the methods of mining—surface and underground—and the metallurgical processes involved in extracting pure metals. Interactive activities, including simulations and concept mapping, encourage learners to apply their knowledge practically. The lesson aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the mining industry's role in modern society.

Takeaways

• 📘 The lesson is a continuation of 'Important Minerals in Society' from the previous module.
• ⛏️ The focus of the lesson is on how minerals are found, mined, and processed for human use.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Students are encouraged to interview people in their community who have experience in mining or the gold buying business for an activity.
• 🌍 Minerals are natural rocks or sediments containing valuable metals that can be mined and processed for profit.
• 🌊 Minerals can also be found at the ocean floor, where the crystallized magma forms deposits.
• ⛏️ Mining in the Philippines is a growing industry, and the two main types of mining are surface mining and underground mining.
• 🏞️ Surface mining involves processes like strip mining, mountaintop removal, and open-pit mining.
• 🚇 Underground mining uses methods such as slope mining, shaft mining, and drift mining.
• 🔥 Metallurgy is the process of extracting pure metals from ores through various stages, including crushing, grinding, flotation, and roasting.
• 🎨 Students are tasked with creating a slogan about how minerals are mined and processed as part of a creative activity.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the second part of Module 3 in Earth Science?

The main focus is on how minerals are found, mined, and processed for human use.

What is suggested before proceeding with this lesson?

It is suggested to have watched the previous lesson on important minerals in society.

What is the role of the activity titled 'What's New Activity 1'?

It involves conducting a situational simulation with at least three people from the community who have experience in mining or gold buying businesses.

Where can minerals be found according to the script?

Minerals can be found inside the Earth, at the Earth's surface, or on the ocean floor.

What is the significance of minerals being contained inside the Earth in a limited quantity?

It indicates that their creation and positioning take millions of years, making them non-renewable resources.

What are the two main mining methods mentioned in the script?

The two main mining methods are surface mining and underground mining.

What are the processes involved in surface mining?

Surface mining includes strip mining, mountain top removal, hydraulic mining, dredging, and open field.

What is the purpose of adding a substance called 'flax' during the metallurgical process?

Flax is added to remove gang impurities during the process of extracting metals in their pure form.

What are the steps in the metallurgical process mentioned in the script?

The steps include crushing and grinding of ores, ore dressing, hydrolytic method, magnetic separation, and froth flotation.

What is the final method in the metallurgical process?

The final method is roasting and calcination, which is usually applied to sulfide ores.

What is the purpose of the 'What's New Activity 3'?

It aims to help learners organize sentences in chronological order regarding the mining and processing of minerals.

What is the objective of the 'I Have Learned Activity'?

The objective is to give the definition of a word given inside a box, enhancing understanding of key terms.

What is the task in the 'What I Can Do Performance' activity?

The task is to create a slogan about how minerals are mined and processed for human use, showcasing creativity and understanding.

How should learners check their progress after completing the tasks?

Learners should use the answer key provided at the end of the module week to assess their work.