Efficiency

Definition

Efficiency is the ability to achieve maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or resources. In the context of Spanish silver mining in the Americas, efficiency refers to the improvement in output and profitability through the adoption of new technologies or methods.

Related terms

Labor specialization: This refers to dividing tasks among workers based on their skills and expertise, allowing each worker to focus on a specific aspect of silver mining.

Hydraulic mining: This method uses high-pressure water jets to dislodge and transport soil and rocks containing silver deposits, making the extraction process more efficient.

Amalgamation process: The amalgamation process involves using mercury to extract silver from ore, increasing the overall yield and efficiency of silver extraction.