CPA Petroleum Industry Fundamentals 3

Question 1

What does API gravity measure in crude oil?

Accepted Answer

The density of oil relative to water

Answer

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.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

To control unexpected pressure surges and prevent well blowouts

Answer

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.

Question 3

What is 'natural gas liquids' (NGL)?

Accepted Answer

Hydrocarbon components heavier than methane extracted from natural gas

Answer

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.

Question 4

Which drilling fluid property describes its resistance to flow?

Accepted Answer

Viscosity

Answer

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.

Question 5

What is the main purpose of casing in a wellbore?

Accepted Answer

To stabilize the wellbore and isolate geological formations

Answer

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

(CPA) Certified Petroleum Apprentice Practice Test

(CPA) Certified Petroleum Apprentice Practice Test

CPA Petroleum Industry Fundamentals 3