Uplift of the Earth's crust due to tectonic or magmatic forces. Influences basin development and mineral systems.
Terms
uraninite
Uranium oxide mineral (UO₂), primary ore of uranium. Occurs in unconformity, vein and sandstone-hosted deposits.
uranium (U)
Radioactive metal used as nuclear fuel. Occurs in a wide range of deposits including sandstone, unconformity and breccia pipes.
vapour pressure
Pressure exerted by a vapour in equilibrium with its liquid. Important in processing, evaporation and reagent behaviour.
vein deposit
Mineralisation formed when hydrothermal fluids fill fractures, producing discrete veins of metals such as Au, Ag, Pb, Zn, Cu.
vendible metal
Quantity of metal in concentrate or product that is payable by the smelter under commercial terms.
temperature gradient
Rate of temperature change with depth. Influences metamorphism, geothermal energy and hydrothermal systems.
tenement
Legal title giving rights to explore or mine in a defined area. Includes exploration licences, mining leases and permits.
thermal coal
Coal used for power generation rather than steelmaking. Lower value than metallurgical coal.
thermal expansion
Increase in volume of materials when heated. Relevant for smelting, refractory design and structural integrity.
thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)
Technique measuring weight changes of a material under controlled temperature. Useful for drying curves and decomposition behaviour.
thickener
Equipment used to concentrate slurry by settling solids and separating water. Core part of tailings and process-circuit design.