Statistical Methods For: Mineral Engineers

Where $\gamma(h)$ is the semivariance, $h$ is the lag distance, and $Z$ is the grade.

In the world of mineral engineering, decisions have billion-dollar consequences. A mill that operates at 85% recovery instead of 90% can render a deposit uneconomical. A misinterpreted assay grid can lead to the development of a barren hill. Unlike chemical engineering (which deals with pure reactants) or mechanical engineering (which deals with deterministic tolerances), mineral engineering must contend with heterogeneity . Statistical Methods For Mineral Engineers

Where $p$ is the probability of recovery (the metal reporting to concentrate). Many flotation recovery curves follow a sigmoidal shape. The Hill equation (borrowed from biochemistry) models recovery as a function of residence time: Where $\gamma(h)$ is the semivariance, $h$ is the