Mining is the process of extracting materials from the earth. These materials that are mined include coal, gold, and iron ore. Now, iron ore is the material from which the metal iron is produced. Whatever form they may be, these minerals and rocks have become encased in various myths and misconceptions for decades. Some of these myths have been around for centuries, while others have surfaced over time as world-shaking discoveries have been made. Let’s look at some of them:
Myth #1: Rocks Are Always Solid
Filled with holes, the seemingly solid rock is, in fact, composed of countless spaces. But that’s not the only thing about rocks that we’ve gotten wrong for all these years. In reality, most rocks are solid in appearance only because they’re filled with holes.
Although a rock may look solid and firm, it can actually be very porous. While some rocks are solid to the touch, they can also be very porous. This means that it could be filled with tiny holes, cracks, and crevices.
This is true of shale, for it has small fissures and cracks. This can then allow fluids from the ground to seep through it. Mudstone has a lot of tiny pores, as does sandstone.
Myth #2: Granite is The Most Durable Rock
While granite is considered one of the oldest and most durable rocks, it is not the most durable rock. In reality, the most durable rocks are the ones that are resistant to heat and can withstand the pressures found deep in the earth. These rocks are found in places like the mantle and upper outer core of the Earth.
Myth #3: Mining Always Destroys the Environment
As the mines are dug deeper and deeper, the environment is ruined. This is because of the heap of waste that is left to contaminate the ground, air and water over time.
Although this may be true for some mines, not all of them are like that. There are some mines that take environmentalism very seriously. These mines are either closed or developed to limit damage to the environment and surrounding communities. Some are even opened in remote areas to limit the negative impact of their day-to-day operations.
Myth #4: All Rocks are Composed of Minerals
While all rocks are composed of minerals, not all minerals are found in rocks. There are some minerals that are found in their purest form.
For example, carbon is a mineral that is found in its purest form or ore. Big deposits of carbon can be found in fossil fuels, such as natural gas, coal, petroleum and diamonds. So while all rocks are composed of minerals, not all minerals are found in rocks.
Conclusion
For years and years, people have believed in the various myths and misconceptions about minerals. As technology and knowledge have advanced, so have the available facts. With knowledge and information, the next time you hear from someone about rocks and minerals, you can tell them your side of the story.
Newfoundland Gold is an alliance of companies focused on advancing mineral exploration and mining projects in Canada’s Newfoundland. Since mining is one of the province’s largest and oldest industries up to date, Newfoundland Gold is focused on continuing this legacy through this alliance built by some of the province’s mining industry giants. Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates about the blossoming gold sector in Canada’s Newfoundland.
