Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
Q6. “Biomining offers an environmentally preferable pathway for extracting metals from low-grade ores.” Explain its working principles. Examine its major advantages over conventional mining. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question
Biomining as an emerging biotechnology for meeting mineral demand while reducing the environmental footprint of conventional extraction.
Key demand of the question
Explain the scientific principles and major stages involved in biomining. Examine its environmental and economic advantages over conventional mineral-extraction methods.
Structure of the answer
Introduction
Introduce biomining as the use of microorganisms to extract metals from ores or other metal-bearing materials, especially low-grade resources.
Body
- Working principles: Briefly cover microbial activity, metal solubilisation and subsequent recovery of metals from the leach solution.
- Advantages over conventional mining: Indicate its potential for processing low-grade ores with lower energy requirements, reduced pollution and improved resource efficiency.
Conclusion
Conclude that biomining can complement conventional extraction and support sustainable mineral security, subject to technological optimisation and environmental safeguards.
