Asked by Jessica Tufts on Jun 15, 2024
Verified
Oil and gas form from:
A) accumulation of inorganic material, such as clay particles in shale
B) oxidation of organic material at the surface
C) heating of rocks to metamorphic temperatures at least 400°C)
D) heating and breakdown of long hydrocarbon chains into smaller molecules
Hydrocarbon Chains
Molecules composed of hydrogen and carbon atoms arranged in a chain, fundamental to organic chemistry and fossil fuels.
Metamorphic Temperatures
The range of temperatures within the Earth's crust at which rock transforms in structure or mineral composition without melting.
Organic Material
Matter derived from living organisms, typically consisting of carbon-based compounds.
- Acquire knowledge about how oil and gas are generated from organic materials.
Verified Answer
BT
Blake TerryJun 15, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
Oil and gas primarily form from the heating and breakdown of long hydrocarbon chains into smaller molecules. This process, known as thermal cracking, occurs deep within the Earth's crust where organic-rich material (like plankton and plants) gets buried and subjected to increased temperatures and pressures, transforming it into hydrocarbons over millions of years.
Learning Objectives
- Acquire knowledge about how oil and gas are generated from organic materials.