geology-4.2 earth resources and engineering

Resources

Naturally occurring geological substances like coal and oil.

Reserves

Economically extractable proportion of resources.

Resources

Naturally occurring geological substances like coal and oil.

Reserves

Economically extractable proportion of resources.

Mineral resources

Essential for construction, manufacturing, and energy.

Limestone

Used in concrete, cement, and road bases.

Haematite

Iron ore used in steel production.

Uranium

Fuel for nuclear energy generation.

Geological mapping

Determines size and orientation of geological bodies.

Borehole correlation

Matches horizons using microfossils for analysis.

Geophysical methods

Measures physical properties of rocks indirectly.

Geochemical methods

Analyzes soil and sediment chemistry for resources.

Source rock

Rock from which oil/gas is derived.

Reservoir rock

Rock that accumulates oil/gas, high porosity required.

Cap rock

Impermeable rock preventing oil/gas migration.

Oil and gas traps

Structures allowing accumulation of oil/gas reserves.

Fracking

Hydraulic fracturing to release natural gas.

Water table

Level below which ground is saturated with water.

Aquifer

Rock capable of storing water, high porosity needed.

Domestic waste

Household waste disposed of in landfill sites.

Hazardous waste

Specialized disposal needed for toxic materials.

Toxic leachate

Contaminated liquid from waste disposal sites.

Bioremediation

Using microbes/plants to clean contaminated ground.

Permeability of bedrock

Ability of rock to absorb and transmit water.

Stability of bedrock

Strength of rock to support structures.

Dip of strata

Angle of rock layers affecting excavation stability.

Faults and joints

Fractures increasing water entry and mass.

Slope failure

Collapse of slopes due to increased pore pressure.

Engineering solutions

Methods like rock bolts to stabilize slopes.