Open-pit mining creates a large hole in the ground after minerals are removed from the surface. Which statement best describes an environmental consequence of this process?
- Heavy metals are released into surrounding soil, poisoning local vegetation.
- High salinity of wastewater reduces soil fertility and growth of vegetation.
- Billions of gallons of water are pulled from surrounding ecosystems.
- Wastewater is contaminated with oil and becomes sludge in landfills.
