The "richest hole in the world" is often considered to be the Bingham Canyon Mine, also known as the Kennecott Copper Mine. This designation comes from the immense value of the minerals, primarily copper, gold, silver, and molybdenum, that have been extracted from it over its long history.
Understanding the Bingham Canyon Mine
The Bingham Canyon Mine is a massive open-pit mining operation. An open-pit mine is essentially a large hole dug into the ground to extract ore close to the surface. Due to its vast size and the sheer quantity of valuable materials recovered, it has generated significant wealth, earning it the moniker of the "richest hole."
Key Location Details
Based on the provided reference, here is the location information for the Bingham Canyon Mine:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Salt Lake County |
| State | Utah |
| Country | United States |
| Coordinates | 40°31′23″N 112°09′04″W |
This mine is situated southwest of Salt Lake City, Utah.
Why is it Considered "Richest"?
- Vast Mineral Production: Since operations began in 1906, the mine has produced more copper than any other mine in history. It has also been a significant producer of gold, silver, and molybdenum.
- Scale of Operation: It is one of the largest man-made excavations on Earth, reaching a depth of over 3,900 feet (1,200 meters) and spanning 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) wide at the top. This scale is a direct result of extracting massive volumes of ore.
- Economic Output: The cumulative value of the metals produced over more than a century represents an extraordinary amount of wealth, solidifying its reputation as the "richest hole."
While other mines around the world are also incredibly productive, the Bingham Canyon Mine's historical output and immense scale make it a prominent contender for this title.
