Exploration

 

Oil exploration is an expensive, high-risk operation. Although exploration technology has advanced significantly since 1897, geologists still have only about a 10% success rate in identifying new fields. A series of methods are used to try and locate new reserves of oil on and off shore. The first is visual: surface features and terrain are examined with the naked eye, aerial photographs, and satellite images to determine if conditions are likely. Surveys are then carried out, usually including gravity surveys and magnetic surveys. Even electronic noses, known as sniffers, are used to try and detect the smell of hydrocarbons. If an area appears to be a good prospect, then a more detailed seismic survey is usually carried out. Once a prospective oil strike is found, the location is marked by GPS coordinates on land or by marker buoys on water. Finally, an exploration well is drilled to conclusively determine the presence or absence of oil.
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