JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY HYDERABAD
JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY HYDERABAD B.Tech III Year MINERAL EXPLORATION Previous Question Paper (July - 2023 - R16)
Note: Part A is compulsory (25 Marks). Answer all questions in Part A. In Part B, answer one question from each unit (50 Marks).
Part A
What are the principles of exploration?
Answer
- Scientific Approach: Exploration must be based on sound geological, geophysical, and geochemical principles to minimize uncertainty and risk. It involves the systematic collection and interpretation of data to identify potential mineral deposits.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The process follows a hierarchical structure, moving from large-scale regional reconnaissance to small-scale detailed investigation. This ensures that capital is invested only in areas with the highest probability of economic success, effectively managing exploration budgets.
- Integration of Data: Successful exploration relies on the multidisciplinary synthesis of geological mapping, remote sensing, geochemical sampling, and geophysical surveys to build a comprehensive 3D model of the subsurface.
- Iterative Decision Making: Exploration is a sequential process where each phase provides data to decide whether to proceed, modify the strategy, or abandon the project, thereby reducing the probability of failure as the project advances.
State any six objectives of geological prospecting.
Answer
- To identify and delineate potential mineralized zones or ore bodies by mapping surface geological features such as outcrops, lithological contacts, and structural controls.
- To determine the geological setting and mode of occurrence of mineral deposits, which helps in understanding the genesis and spatial distribution of the ore.
- To estimate the economic potential of a prospect by evaluating the grade, quality, and quantity of the mineral resource based on surface indications.
- To provide a scientific basis for selecting target areas for more intensive follow-up exploration techniques, such as geochemical sampling or geophysical surveys.
- To establish the structural and stratigraphic framework of an area, which is essential for predicting the continuity of mineralized horizons at depth.
- To minimize exploration costs and risks by systematically eliminating non-prospective areas through detailed geological observation and mapping before committing to expensive drilling programs.
State methods of sampling.
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Explain briefly about reserves.
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What are pathfinders?
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Explain briefly about target elements for geochemical exploration.
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What are secondary dispersion elements?
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Explain briefly about geochemical sampling.
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State the importance of feasibility data.
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Explain briefly the importance of accurate geological data.
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Part B
What are the different methods of mineral exploration? Explain any one method in detail, and give its applicability, advantages and limitations.
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Explain the principles of different prospecting methods commonly used.
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Explain in detail the procedure of exploration drilling with a suitable line diagram.
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What are the various purposes of sampling? Explain any one method of sampling commonly used in mineral exploration.
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What are various geophysical methods commonly used in mineral exploration? Explain the principles of geophysical methods with suitable examples.
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What is geochemical exploration? Explain it in detail, with suitable data and examples, giving its scope, advantages and limitations.
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Explain in detail about geochemical anomalies, with suitable examples.
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Discuss the interpretation of the geochemical survey and list its importance in mineral exploration.
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Explain the contents of a feasibility report for an open-cast copper mine. Assume relevant data, if necessary.
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Explain the significance of economic factors during various stages of exploration for the success of a mining company.
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