Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of diamond core drilling in the exploration of potential orebodies?
What is the primary purpose of diamond core drilling in the exploration of potential orebodies?
- To directly locate and quantify the mineral reserves
- To extract the ore from the ground for processing
- To determine the economic viability of the orebody
- To collect a continuous 'line' of geologic information (correct)
What is the process of studying and recording information from the recovered cores called?
What is the process of studying and recording information from the recovered cores called?
- Drilling
- Mapping
- Logging (correct)
- Coring
What is the primary objective of constructing a 3-dimensional representation of the mineralized body?
What is the primary objective of constructing a 3-dimensional representation of the mineralized body?
- To determine the economic viability of the orebody
- To identify the best drilling locations for further exploration
- To quantify the size, shape, and distribution of observable geologic features (correct)
- To extract the ore from the ground for processing
At what stage in the evaluation process are economics introduced, and terms like 'ore' or 'ore reserve' used?
At what stage in the evaluation process are economics introduced, and terms like 'ore' or 'ore reserve' used?
What is the definition of 'cutoff grade' as mentioned in the text?
What is the definition of 'cutoff grade' as mentioned in the text?
Study Notes
Exploration and Logging
- Diamond core drilling is used to explore potential orebodies, providing a continuous 'line' of geologic information.
- The recovered core is studied in detail and the contained information is recorded through a process called 'logging'.
Core Segmentation
- Each 'line' is subdivided into segments representing rock types, structural features, types of mineralization, grades, etc.
3-Dimensional Representation
- A pattern of drilling holes creates a series of similarly segmented lines located in space.
- The mining geologist uses this information, along with geologic setting and other factors, to construct a 3-dimensional representation of the mineralized body.
Mineral Inventory
- The objective is to quantify the size, shape, and distribution of observable geologic features.
- The distribution of ore grades is correlated to lithology, alteration, structure, etc.
- The result is a mineral inventory or geological reserve, without considering economics.
Cutoff Grade
- Cutoff grade is the grade at which the mineral resource can no longer be processed at a profit.
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Description
Explore the process of diamond core drilling and logging in ore exploration. Learn how small diameter cores provide valuable geological information and how this information is recorded through logging. Understand how orebodies are explored using this method.
