What term describes the construction used to seal certain areas in a mine to control airflow?

The term that best describes the construction used to seal certain areas in a mine to control airflow is "stopping." Stoppings are specifically designed structures that block or direct the movement of air within the mine. Their primary purpose is to create stable air environments that allow for effective ventilation in operational areas while preventing the spread of contaminants or harmful gases.

Stoppings can be constructed from various materials, including concrete, steel, or membranes, and are strategically placed to ensure that different sections of the mine maintain the necessary airflow for safety and operational efficiency. Properly designed and installed stoppings are crucial for maintaining adequate ventilation systems and protecting the health and safety of miners.

While sealing, bricking, and blocking may seem related, they refer to broader concepts or less specific methods of creating barriers or controlling airflow. Sealing might refer to the overall act of closing off areas, but it does not denote a specific type of construction like stoppings. Bricking can denote the use of brick materials but lacks the specificity in mining contexts that stoppings hold. Blocking is a more generic term and does not explicitly imply the construction methods used in mining ventilation practices.