Petroleum and Its Uses
Petroleum is an essential and important source of energy. It is also known as crude oil, and is extracted from underground reservoirs and processed in refining plants. Petroleum is composed of hundreds of different components, such as hydrocarbons, waxes, heavier oils, and asphalt. In its natural, unrefined form, petroleum contains a mixture of hydrocarbons. The hydrocarbons are the molecules that make up the majority of what is known as the “petroleum products”, including gasoline, diesel, lubricants, kerosene, paraffin, and other fuels.
Petroleum is one of the most valuable sources of energy worldwide. It is used to fuel transportation, heat homes and buildings, and power a variety of industrial processes. In addition to its direct uses, petroleum is also used as the building block for many consumer products, including plastics, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and synthetic fibers. In the United States alone, petroleum contributes over 6% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The most common uses of petroleum are in the transportation industry. Approximately 95% of total global transport fuels come from petroleum products. Gasoline and diesel are the most commonly used fuels, but petroleum also fuels airplanes, ships, trains, and cars. In addition to its direct use in transportation, petroleum is also used as a raw material for the production of many other materials, including synthetic rubber and aviation fuel.
Another major use of petroleum is in the production of chemicals. It is estimated that more than 150 billion pounds of chemicals are produced each year from petroleum products. These chemicals are critical in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning agents. Petroleum is also used to manufacture a variety of everyday products, such as cosmetics, food containers, and kitchen appliances.
Because of its widespread use in transportation and as a raw material, petroleum is a major source of both economic and environmental pollution. Over consumption of gasoline has resulted in air pollution, global warming, and other environmental problems. For example, burning gasoline and diesel release poisonous substances such as lead, ozone, and carbon monoxide into the atmosphere. Petroleum also produces other pollutants, such as sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and greenhouse gases, that are known to accelerate global warming and climate change.
In recent years, there has been increased awareness about the impact of petroleum on the environment, leading to the development of alternative sources of energy. Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and geothermal, are being developed as alternatives to petroleum. Additionally, advances in energy efficiency and conservation have reduced the demand for petroleum products.
Despite its environmental and economic downside, petroleum continues to be an essential source of energy and raw materials. With proper research, regulation, and use, it is possible to reduce the reliance on petroleum and create a more sustainable relationship with our environment.
