Quarrying - GCSE Chemistry Definition
Reviewed by: Richard Boole
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Quarrying is the process of removing rocks, minerals, or sand from the ground, usually by cutting, digging, or blasting. These materials are often used to make building materials such as cement, glass, and bricks.
In GCSE Chemistry, quarrying is important because it provides raw materials like limestone, which can be used in neutralisation reactions or to make products like cement.
However, quarrying can have environmental impacts, including:
Habitat destruction
Dust and noise pollution
Visual impact on the landscape
Understanding quarrying helps students learn where materials come from and how industrial processes can be managed to reduce environmental harm.
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