What type of mining method involves the use of explosives?

The chosen answer refers to surface mining, also known as open-pit mining, which prominently involves the use of explosives. This method is utilized to break apart large volumes of rock and soil to access the minerals buried beneath. In surface mining, after removing the overburden (the upper layers of earth), explosives are often needed to fragment the underlying rock, making it easier to transport and process the desired minerals.

Surface mining is particularly effective for extracting materials located close to the surface, as it allows for the removal of substantial amounts of material efficiently. Techniques may vary in their specifics but generally, the role of explosives to facilitate access to mineral deposits is a hallmark of this mining method.

Other methods such as subsurface mining generally rely more on drilling and tunneling rather than explosives, while salt mining and mineral extraction can use different techniques based on the material being mined and its geological context. Thus, surface mining stands out for its reliance on explosives as a critical component in the extraction process.