Metal mining operations generate large amounts of particulate matter, which includes dust, fumes, and aerosols. These particles can cause respiratory problems and contribute to air pollution.

Acid mine drainage is a major source of water pollution in metal mining areas. It occurs when water comes into contact with exposed sulfide minerals, resulting in the formation of sulfuric acid and dissolved metals.

Land clearing is the process of removing vegetation and topsoil to expose the underlying mineral deposits. This can have significant environmental impacts, including soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of ecosystem services.

Open-pit mining is a common method used to extract metals from ores. It involves digging a large open pit in the ground to expose the ore body. This method can have significant environmental impacts, including land degradation and visual pollution.

Waste rock is the term used for the rock and soil that is removed during metal mining operations but does not contain valuable minerals. It is typically disposed of in waste piles or landfills.

Electrostatic precipitators are commonly used to control air pollution from metal mining operations. They work by applying an electrical charge to dust particles, causing them to stick to collection plates.

Wastewater treatment is the process of treating wastewater from metal mining operations to remove pollutants before it is discharged into the environment. This can involve a variety of treatment methods, such as chemical precipitation, biological treatment, and filtration.

Land reclamation is the process of restoring land that has been disturbed by metal mining operations to a more natural state. This can involve a variety of activities, such as reforestation, revegetation, and soil remediation.

Beneficiation is the process of separating valuable minerals from ores. This can involve a variety of techniques, such as crushing, grinding, flotation, and leaching.

Hydrometallurgy is a method of extracting metals from ores using a chemical solution. This can involve a variety of processes, such as leaching, precipitation, and ion exchange.

Pyrometallurgy is a method of extracting metals from ores using heat. This can involve a variety of processes, such as roasting, smelting, and refining.

Electrometallurgy is a method of extracting metals from ores using an electrical current. This can involve a variety of processes, such as electrolysis and electrowinning.

Refining is the process of melting and refining metals to remove impurities. This can involve a variety of processes, such as distillation, oxidation, and reduction.

Casting is a common method used to shape and solidify molten metals. This involves pouring molten metal into a mold and allowing it to cool and solidify.

Heat treatment is the process of changing the properties of metals by heating and cooling them. This can involve a variety of processes, such as annealing, tempering, and quenching.