Many people don’t realize that oil and gas has not “conventionally” been produced from the same source rock in which it was created. That rock is good for preserving organic remains until it can mature into oil and gas, but it can be exceedingly-difficult to produce from. Fortunately, some oil and gas escapes the source rock and migrates underground. In this module, we discuss how that migration occurs and how migrating oil and gas can accumulate in better-quality “reservoir” rock in trap-like structures. We discuss the characteristics that make good “reservoir” rock and contrast it with the poor characteristics of source rock and tight rock that are the subject of “unconventional” development. We finish with a cool demonstration that shows why rock quality is so important.

Duration: Approximately 15 minutes, depending on user pace.

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

Discuss how some oil and gas can leave its source rock and migrate underground through rock pores
Describe how buoyancy drives oil and gas in a generally-upward direction
Explain how rock porosity, permeability and other factors impact the ability for oil and gas to migrate through rock and affect its migration route
Convey how oil and gas can enter trap-like structures or features that block its flow and cause oil and gas to accumulate

Prerequisites: Module 1-5

Advance Preparation: None

Program Level: Non-technical

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