This module describes what the term “organic” means and how that term relates to hydrocarbons such as oil and gas. We dispel a common myth about the source of oil and gas and describe the seemingly-unlikely organisms that are the actual source. These organisms still exist today and we’ll discuss the environments where they thrive and how their remains can be preserved by sediments. This will be important in later sections when we look back in time to see where organic remains may have been deposited and preserved in the past. Many of those deposits are sources of oil and gas today.

Duration: Approximately 13 minutes, depending on user pace.

Learning Objectives: Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Describe the organisms that are the primary source of oil and gas
• Explain how organisms generate organic debris that could lead to the eventual formation of oil and gas
• Convey how organic debris can be preserved if covered by sediments
• Name the type of sediments that can best preserve organic debris and the type of organic source rock that those sediments create
• Identify the types of areas where organisms thrive, and how that could provide clues where source rock may exist

Prerequisites: None

Advance Preparation: None

Program Level: Non-technical

Format: Prerecorded narrator with supporting visuals. User controls course pace.