(a) Draw a sketch map of Africa. On the map, locate and name any two areas of gold mining in South Africa. (b) Describe one method of mining gold in South A...
Question 1 Report
(a) Draw a sketch map of Africa. On the map, locate and name any two areas of gold mining in South Africa.
(b) Describe one method of mining gold in South Africa.
(c) State any four importance of gold mining to South Africa.
Answer Details
(a) Sketch map of Africa showing two gold-mining areas in South Africa
(b) Shaft (underground) mining method
Gold-bearing reefs in South Africa may lie deep below the surface. A vertical shaft is sunk down to the reef, and horizontal tunnels are made along it. Miners use explosives to break the gold-bearing rock. The broken rock is loaded and carried to the surface, often by conveyors or trucks. It is then crushed and treated with chemicals to extract the gold, before further refining at a smelter. Deep mines also require ventilation, water pumping and support to prevent collapse.
(c) Four importance of gold mining to South Africa
- It earns foreign exchange when gold is exported.
- It provides employment and income for mine workers and workers in related industries.
- It provides revenue to the government through taxes and royalties.
- It promotes the growth of towns, infrastructure and supporting industries such as engineering, transport and power supply.
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