Question
ITEM 4 Kilembe mine on the foothills of Rwenzori Mountain is estimated by government geologists to contain tonnes of the Ore that contain copper. The production of copper was halted due to how copper prices and political instability. However, the demand for cooper has since then increased. The ministry of energy and mineral development has cleared an investor to restore the mining of copper with minimal environmental impact. The youth in the area are wondering how the extraction process will be done. The head teacher has appointed you to explain to the youth how the process will be done and how can they benefit from it. TASK Prepare a presentation that you will use during the sensitization.
Answer
4.2
(291 Votes)
Petunia
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
### The presentation should cover the extraction process of copper, measures to minimize environmental impact, and the benefits to the youth and community, including employment opportunities, skill development, economic growth, and community development.
Explanation
## Step1: Understanding the Context### The Kilembe mine, located at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountain, contains copper ore. The production was previously halted due to low copper prices and political instability. However, with the increase in demand for copper, the government has cleared an investor to resume mining with minimal environmental impact. The youth in the area are curious about the extraction process and its benefits.## Step2: Explaining the Extraction Process### The extraction process of copper typically involves several steps:1. **Mining**: The ore is extracted from the ground using either open-pit or underground mining techniques.2. **Crushing and Grinding**: The extracted ore is crushed and ground into fine particles to liberate the copper minerals from the waste rock.3. **Concentration**: The ground ore is subjected to froth flotation to concentrate the copper minerals.4. **Smelting**: The concentrated ore is heated in a furnace to extract the copper metal from its ore.5. **Refining**: The extracted copper is purified using electrolysis to achieve high purity levels.## Step3: Addressing Environmental Impact### To minimize environmental impact, the following measures can be implemented:1. **Sustainable Mining Practices**: Using techniques that reduce land disturbance and waste generation.2. **Rehabilitation of Mined Areas**: Restoring the mined land to its natural state or repurposing it for other uses.3. **Water Management**: Implementing systems to manage and treat water used in the mining process to prevent contamination.4. **Air Quality Control**: Using dust suppression techniques and controlling emissions from smelting operations.## Step4: Benefits to the Youth and Community### The resumption of copper mining can bring several benefits to the youth and the community:1. **Employment Opportunities**: Direct jobs in mining operations and indirect jobs in supporting industries.2. **Skill Development**: Training programs to equip the youth with skills needed in the mining industry.3. **Economic Growth**: Increased economic activity and investment in the region.4. **Community Development**: Improved infrastructure, healthcare, and education facilities funded by mining revenues.#