Oil and Source Rock Correlation

The objectives in crude oil correlation vary considerably, depending on exploration and production problems. In principle it is desirable to correlate different oils with each other, oils with their source rocks, gases with gases and, if possible, gases with oils and source rocks (Fig. V.2.1). Questions frequently posed to the exploration geologist are the following: is it possible to identify various types or families of oils, condensates or gases occurring in a sedimentary basin? Does each family have a single or multiple origin?is it possible to identify the source rock of a given oil, condensate or gas? Is it possible to detect intra-basinal facies changes in a given source rock that would result in the release of different and identifiable crude oils across the basin?