Which of the following describes a key principle of surface mining?

The key principle of surface mining is accurately described by the choice that emphasizes the removal of overburden to access resources near the surface. This method involves stripping away the layers of soil, rock, and other materials that cover a mineral resource, allowing miners to reach and extract valuable materials such as coal, metals, and aggregates that are located relatively close to the Earth's surface.

This approach is fundamental to surface mining techniques, as it maximizes resource extraction efficiency and minimizes the need for underground infrastructure, which can be cost-prohibitive and complex to manage. Furthermore, the removal of overburden is typically a necessary step to ensure that non-renewable resources can be accessed effectively and safely.

This principle emphasizes the contrast between surface mining and underground mining, where the latter involves extraction without significant surface disturbance and generally doesn't require the same extensive removal of earth material. It also highlights differences from practices focusing on ecosystem disregard or explosives usage, which, while part of certain mining processes, are not defining characteristics of surface mining as a whole.