Open-pit mining

Definition

Open-pit mining is a method of extracting minerals or ores from the Earth's surface by removing layers of soil and rock. It involves digging a large open pit or excavation, which allows for easy access to the desired resource.

Related terms

Strip mining: This term refers to a type of surface mining where layers of soil and rock are removed in strips to extract valuable minerals.

Overburden: Overburden refers to the layers of soil and rock that are removed during open-pit mining to access the desired resource.

Reclamation: Reclamation is the process of restoring land that has been mined back to its original state or repurposing it for other uses after mining activities have ceased.