Oil and Petroleum Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real Energy and Utilities practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Oil and Petroleum Systems flashcards as text
What process is used at oil refineries to separate crude oil into different products based on their boiling points?
Answer: Fractional distillation
Fractional distillation heats crude oil and separates it into fractions (gasoline, diesel, kerosene, etc.) as vapors condense at different temperatures.
What does API gravity measure in crude oil?
Answer: The density of crude oil compared to water
API gravity is an inverse measure of crude oil density relative to water; oils with API > 10 float on water, and higher API gravity generally indicates lighter, more valuable crude.
In the oil and gas industry, what does the term 'upstream' refer to?
Answer: Exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas
Upstream encompasses the exploration, drilling, and production phases of the oil and gas supply chain before refining or transportation.
What is a blowout preventer (BOP) primarily used for during oil drilling operations?
Answer: To control well pressure and prevent uncontrolled releases of oil or gas
A BOP is a large valve installed at the wellhead to seal the well and prevent dangerous, uncontrolled blowouts of oil or gas during drilling.
What is crude oil referred to as 'sweet crude'?
Answer: Crude oil with low sulfur content (generally below 0.5%)
Sweet crude has low sulfur content, making it easier and cheaper to refine into gasoline and diesel, hence it commands a premium price.
What does 'downstream' refer to in the oil and gas industry?
Answer: Refining, distribution, and retail sale of petroleum products
Downstream covers all activities after crude oil leaves the wellhead, including refining into finished products and their distribution and sale to end consumers.
What is hydraulic fracturing (fracking) primarily used for in oil and gas production?
Answer: To inject fluid under high pressure to crack rock and release trapped oil or gas
Hydraulic fracturing pumps fluid at high pressure into a well to fracture tight rock formations, creating pathways for oil or gas to flow to the wellbore.