Petroleum Industry Fundamentals Flashcards

What does API gravity measure in crude oil?

Answer: The density of oil relative to water

API gravity is an inverse measure of crude oil density relative to water; higher API gravity indicates lighter (less dense) crude, which generally commands a higher price.

In offshore drilling, what is the purpose of a 'blowout preventer' (BOP)?

Answer: To control unexpected pressure surges and prevent well blowouts

A BOP is a large valve assembly installed at the wellhead to seal the wellbore and prevent uncontrolled release of oil, gas, or drilling fluids during a kick or blowout.

What is 'natural gas liquids' (NGL)?

Answer: Hydrocarbon components heavier than methane extracted from natural gas

NGLs are hydrocarbon components such as ethane, propane, butane, and natural gasoline that are heavier than methane and can be separated from the natural gas stream.

Which drilling fluid property describes its resistance to flow?

Answer: Viscosity

Viscosity measures the resistance of drilling fluid to flow; it must be properly controlled to carry cuttings to the surface while allowing separation at the surface.

What is the main purpose of casing in a wellbore?

Answer: To stabilize the wellbore and isolate geological formations

Casing is steel pipe cemented into the wellbore to prevent the hole from collapsing, isolate different pressure zones, and protect groundwater from contamination.

What does the term 'upstream' refer to in the petroleum industry?

Answer: Exploration and production of oil and gas

Upstream refers to the exploration and production (E&P) segment, which includes finding oil and gas reserves and extracting them from the ground.

What is 'reservoir pressure' in the context of oil production?

Answer: The natural pressure within a hydrocarbon-bearing formation

Reservoir pressure is the natural pressure existing within a petroleum-bearing formation that drives hydrocarbons toward the wellbore during production.