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This type of mining often results in highly contaminated areas (holes in the ground called quarries) when toxic sulfides from the ore react and produce sulfuric acid.

a) Placer mining
b) Subsurface mining
c) Open-pit mining
d) Acid mine drainage

Answer :

Final answer:

Acid mine drainage, commonly associated with surface mining and especially open-pit mining, results in contamination when exposed sulfide minerals like pyrite produce sulfuric acid, impacting soil, water, and ecosystems. Hence, option D is correct.

Explanation:

The type of mining that often results in highly contaminated areas due to toxic sulfides from the ore reacting and producing sulfuric acid is acid mine drainage. This environmental issue occurs when sulfide minerals like pyrite (FeS₂) are exposed to air and water, leading to the formation of sulfuric acid. This process can originate from different mining practices, but it is most commonly associated with surface mining, particularly open-pit mining. In open-pit mining, large terraced holes are created in the ground to extract near-surface ore bodies, which can lead to the formation of acid mine drainage.

This environmental problem can have severe consequences for ecosystems, as the acidic water can increase the solubility of heavy metals such as copper, lead, mercury, and zinc, leading to soil and water contamination. Moreover, this can negatively affect plant and animal life due to the toxic nature of the acidic effluent. Thus, while mining is essential for extracting valuable minerals, it must be managed carefully to mitigate its environmental impacts, including the creation of acid mine drainage.

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