The first well drilled on a geologic structure which discovers significant quantities of hydrocarbons.
An exploratory well that encounters a new and previously untapped petroleum deposit.
An exploratory well that encounters a previously untapped oil or gas deposit.
An exploratory well that finds hydrocarbons.
Exploratory well which discovers a new oil/gas field (see WILDCAT).
the fist well that encounters a new and previously untapped petroleum deposit. A discovery well may also encounter a new formation in an established field.
The first successful oil or gas well drilled in a new field. The well that reveals the presence of a petroleum-bearing reservoir. Subsequent wells are development wells.