Which term describes underground mining that involves building a concrete-lined tunnel under an ore deposit, then collecting the ore through openings in the liner?

Which term describes underground mining that involves building a concrete-lined tunnel under an ore deposit, then collecting the ore through openings in the liner?

• A. Brick-and-mortar retailer
• B. Block caving
• C. Blemish
• D. Belly

Answer: (B)

Block caving is an underground mining method designed for large, low-grade ore bodies near the surface. In this approach, the ore is undercut, and a network of concrete-lined tunnels is established under the deposit. The weight of the overlying rock causes the ore to cave and fracture, and the broken ore is then drawn through openings in the liner—drawpoints or passes—for collection at surface or a central processing area. This system uses gravity to move the ore, enabling very high production with minimal blasting. The other terms don’t describe mining methods—one is a retail term, another a defect, and the last a non- mining concept—so block caving is the correct description for this technique.

Block caving is an underground mining method designed for large, low-grade ore bodies near the surface. In this approach, the ore is undercut, and a network of concrete-lined tunnels is established under the deposit. The weight of the overlying rock causes the ore to cave and fracture, and the broken ore is then drawn through openings in the liner—drawpoints or passes—for collection at surface or a central processing area. This system uses gravity to move the ore, enabling very high production with minimal blasting. The other terms don’t describe mining methods—one is a retail term, another a defect, and the last a non- mining concept—so block caving is the correct description for this technique.