Rock that supplies the natural gas in a gas trap. The gas was generated by the decomposition of tiny sea plants and animals that died millions of years ago, sank to the muddy bottom, and became part of this rock. Shale is a common source rock.
sedimentary rock containing organic material which under heat, pressure, and time is convertible into gaseous and liquid hydrocarbons.
A geologic formation that contains sufficient organic matter such that when under sustained elevated temperature and pressures, the organic matter is converted to hydrocarbons.
The rocks in which hydrocarbons are created or sourced from carbohydrates through heat and pressure.
A rock from which oil or natural gas is generated from organic materials.
A rock (organic-rich shale) containing the raw materials from which hydrocarbons eventually form.