Terms

Uplift of the Earth's crust due to tectonic or magmatic forces. Influences basin development and mineral systems.

Uranium oxide mineral (UO₂), primary ore of uranium. Occurs in unconformity, vein and sandstone-hosted deposits.

Radioactive metal used as nuclear fuel. Occurs in a wide range of deposits including sandstone, unconformity and breccia pipes.

Pressure exerted by a vapour in equilibrium with its liquid. Important in processing, evaporation and reagent behaviour.

Mineralisation formed when hydrothermal fluids fill fractures, producing discrete veins of metals such as Au, Ag, Pb, Zn, Cu.

Quantity of metal in concentrate or product that is payable by the smelter under commercial terms.

Rate of temperature change with depth. Influences metamorphism, geothermal energy and hydrothermal systems.

Legal title giving rights to explore or mine in a defined area. Includes exploration licences, mining leases and permits.

Coal used for power generation rather than steelmaking. Lower value than metallurgical coal.

Increase in volume of materials when heated. Relevant for smelting, refractory design and structural integrity.

Technique measuring weight changes of a material under controlled temperature. Useful for drying curves and decomposition behaviour.

Equipment used to concentrate slurry by settling solids and separating water. Core part of tailings and process-circuit design.