Open pit mining is a surface mining technique used to extract valuable minerals and ores from the earth. This method involves digging a large, open hole, or pit, in the ground to access the resources beneath the surface. The process is often used for materials like gold, copper, and iron ore, which are found in large quantities. The open pit is created in a series of benches or steps, allowing for safer access to the materials. Heavy machinery, such as excavators and dump trucks, is used to remove the overburden, or soil and rock, covering the ore. This method is efficient for large-scale operations but can have significant environmental impacts.