Question

which of these makes surface mining less risky than underground mining?
a. open pits at surface mines replace biological communities.
b. surface miners work in dusty, enclosed areas.
c. surface miners work aboveground in the open air.
d. tunnels in surface mines can collapse and trap miners.

Explanation:

Let's analyze each option:

• Option A: Open pits replacing biological communities is an environmental impact, not related to miner safety/risk.
• Option B: Working in dusty, enclosed areas (as in underground mining) is more risky, not a reason surface mining is less risky.
• Option C: Working aboveground in the open air reduces risks like cave - ins (common in underground mining), gas accumulation (more likely in enclosed underground spaces), etc.
• Option D: Tunnel collapse is a risk of underground mining (not surface mining), and this option is factually incorrect for surface mining.

Answer:

C. Surface miners work aboveground in the open air.