Mining Paper 2 WASSCE (SC), 2023

Question 14

 

  1. Define rock
  2. State the relationship between ore grade and ore recovery
  3. List six rock minerals
  4. Outline five usefulness of rocks to man

 

This question was fairly answered by those who attempted it. It is a popular question among the candidates. The question requested the candidates to give the following points:


(a) Definition of Rock
A rock is a naturally occurring solid made up of aggregate of minerals.


(b) Grade and Ore Recovery
As Grade increases Recovery decreases and vice versa

Relationship between recovery and grade of copper in concentrates.  

 

(c) Rock-forming Minerals

  • Plagioclase Feldspar
  • Potassium feldspar
  • Quartz
  • Dolomite
  • Calcite
  • Biotite
  • Muscovite
  • Pyroxene
  • Olivine
  • Muscovite
  • Hornblende

 (d) Usefulness of Rocks

  • Rocks form the main source of mineral deposits such as gold, diamond, copper etc
  • They provide essential raw materials for both light and heavy industries e.g. limestone for cement production
  • Some beautiful rocks such as marble can be polished as ornaments for decoration in homes, churches and mosques
  • Rocks such as coal serve as sources of fuel for domestic and industrial uses
  • Rocks serve as tourist attraction e.g. Olumo rock in Abeokuta, the volcanic rocks of Jos.
  • Rocks are used in construction works e.g. building of houses, dam etc.