IGCSE Environmental Management - Rocks and Minerals

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the IGCSE Environmental Management syllabus, focusing on rocks, minerals, and their impact.

Rock Cycle

A representation of the changes between the three rock types and the processes causing them.

Igneous Rocks

Rocks formed when liquid magma cools to form solid rock.

Magma

Molten rock below the surface of the Earth.

Lava

Magma that reaches the surface of the Earth.

Extrusive Igneous Rock

Igneous rock that cools quickly at the surface, resulting in small crystals, e.g., basalt.

Intrusive Igneous Rock

Igneous rock that cools slowly below the surface, resulting in large crystals, e.g., granite.

Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed by the weathering of existing rocks at the Earth’s surface, often containing fossils.

Metamorphic Rocks

Rocks formed from existing rock under heat and/or pressure, resulting in changes without melting.

Prospecting

The process of searching for minerals by examining the surface of the rocks.

Remote Sensing

Gathering information about the Earth’s surface from above, often via aerial photographs.

Geochemical Analysis

Analysing the chemical properties of rocks by taking samples.

Surface Mining

A method of extracting minerals located near the surface, including open-pit and strip mining.

Sub-surface Mining

A method that involves sinking a vertical shaft to extract minerals from deeper layers.

Environmental Impact Assessment

A plan required by companies to minimize habitat loss and restore land after mining.

Supply and Demand

The relationship between how much of a commodity is available and how much is needed or wanted by consumers.

Ecological Impacts

Consequences of mining activities that affect the habitats and resources of local wildlife.

Pollution Types

Different forms of pollution caused by mining include noise, water, land, and air pollution.

Biomagnification

The increasing concentration of toxic substances up the food chain.

Economic Impacts of Mining

Economic benefits including job creation, tax revenue, and foreign exchange earnings.

Land Restoration

The process of improving and rehabilitating land affected by mining practices.