Mining metallic minerals usually produces sulfur-rich acidic wastes.You learned earlier in this course that calcite (CaCO₃)reacts with acids to neutralize them.Based on this,what material could you apply to the acidic surface or groundwater drainage near a metallic ore body or mine,to neutralize its acidity?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Limestone or marble, which are composed primarily of calcite, can be applied to acidic surface or groundwater drainage to neutralize the acidity. As mentioned, calcite reacts with acids to neutralize them, making this material the best choice to mitigate the environmental impact of acid mine drainage. Gypsum, salt, and foliated metamorphic rocks do not contain enough calcite to effectively neutralize acidic waste.

Mining Metallic Minerals Usually Produces Sulfur-Rich Acidic Wastes