Which one of the following is a horizontal opening driven from the surface to access a mineral deposit?

Solution (By Examveda Team)

Definition of Adit:
An adit is a nearly horizontal or gently inclined tunnel driven from the surface into the side of a hill or mountain to access an underground mineral deposit. Unlike vertical shafts, adits provide direct access from the surface without the need for hoisting systems. They are commonly used when the ore body is located in hilly or mountainous terrain and can be reached by tunneling into the hillside.

Correct Answer: Option B: Adit
The correct answer is Option B: Adit because an adit is specifically defined as a horizontal or slightly inclined opening driven from the surface to access a mineral deposit. Adits are used for multiple purposes such as providing access for miners and equipment, enabling natural drainage of water from the mine, and serving as entry points for ventilation.

Adits are cost-effective in suitable topographies because they eliminate the need for vertical hoisting and can also be used for transporting ore and waste using rail or conveyor systems. They are particularly common in underground mining operations where the ore body is close to the surface but located within a hillside.

Explanation of Other Options:
Option A: Shaft
A shaft is a vertical or near-vertical opening driven downward from the surface to access underground ore bodies. It is not horizontal, so it does not match the description in the question.

Option C: Stope
A stope is the excavated area where ore is actually mined, typically located underground. It is not an access tunnel and is not driven from the surface.

Option D: Raise
A raise is a vertical or inclined opening driven upward from a lower level to a higher level in the mine. It is the opposite of a shaft and is also not driven from the surface.

Conclusion:
Therefore, the correct answer is Option B: Adit, as it is the only option that accurately describes a horizontal opening driven from the surface to access a mineral deposit.