pétrole

Pétrole is the French word for petroleum, a naturally occurring flammable liquid found in geological formations beneath the Earth's surface. It is a fossil fuel that has been formed over millions of years from the remains of dead organisms, primarily plankton and algae. When extracted, crude oil is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, varying in color from black to yellow-brown.

The refining process transforms crude oil into a wide range of useful products. These include gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, kerosene, and heating oil, which are essential for transportation and energy generation. Pétrole also serves as a feedstock for the petrochemical industry, producing plastics, synthetic fibers, fertilizers, and many other materials that are integral to modern life.

The discovery and exploitation of pétrole have profoundly shaped global economies and geopolitics. It is a major source of energy worldwide, driving industrial development and powering transportation networks. However, its combustion releases greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change. Concerns about supply security, price volatility, and environmental impact have led to ongoing research and investment in alternative energy sources. The extraction and transportation of pétrole also carry risks of environmental damage through spills.