Lab 2 Begin Mine/Deposit Research Paper

Mineral  Deposit  Research  Paper

The Lab for Class #2 is to begin research and writing for the mine or ore deposit of your choice. 

Select a mineral deposit or mine with current or past production, anywhere in the world.  Select one that is of special interest because it is near you, or any other reason.  Pick a deposit that you can get information for from the sources which you have available to you.  These may include a public or university library, state and government agencies which have offices of mineral resources, the internet, local rock or mineral clubs, etc...  You may be able to contact the mine directly and request information. 

The report format is variable, but should include some of the topics listed below as sections of the report:

            Table of Contents

            List of Figures

            List of Tables

            Introduction

            Mine Location

            General Description (access, geography, climate, etc...)

            Mining History

            Regional Geology

            Deposit Model

            Conclusions

            References Cited

            Appendices  (including geochemical data, cross-sections or various types of maps.)

The report can be anywhere from 3 to 8 pages, including graphics (at Arial 8-12 pt).  I would prefer the report is written as an MS word document, but other formats are possible with prior approval. 

Graphics could include location maps, geologic maps, cross sections, photos of mine workings or outcrops, geochemical maps, geophysical maps, etc...  Try to insert some scanned images into the report as figures or plates.  Use GIF files for insertion into the text (figures etc...).   All text and graphics should be on 8.5 X 11 inch page format. Use JPEG, BMP, GIF or TIFF file format.

Make an Appendix which lists the major commodities which are being extracted at the mine, and list the major uses of the commodities and the current market price of each.

Suggested topics:     

A copper mine in Arizona or Utah. 

A chromite mine in South Africa.

A gold mine in Alaska, or any country.

A diamond mine in Canada or Africa.

A lead-zinc mine in Alaska or Canada.

Fluorite mine.

Barite mine.