Chemical and bacterial decomposition of ________ in mine tailings produces sulphuric acid that attacks other sulphide minerals, to releasing toxic levels of heavy metals to the surface environment, and seeps of contaminated water called acid mine drainage.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pyrite is a common sulphide mineral found in mine tailings that undergoes chemical and bacterial decomposition to produce sulphuric acid. This acid attacks other sulphide minerals, causing the release of heavy metals into the environment and leading to the formation of acid mine drainage. Calcite, quartz, and sylvite are not typically found in mine tailings and do not contribute to this process.

Chemical and Bacterial Decomposition of ________ in Mine Tailings Produces