Concept:Mineral exploitation can cause serious harm to the natural environment.
Explanation:Mining operations create waste materials, dust, and toxic chemicals.
These substances enter the air, water, and soil.
This contamination is known as pollution.
Pollution is a major negative effect of mineral exploitation.
Afforestation is planting trees, while hydration and oxidation are natural processes.
They are not negative effects of mineral exploitation.
Answer:C. pollution