toorõli

Toorõli, or crude oil, is a naturally occurring, unrefined petroleum liquid that consists mainly of hydrocarbon compounds, with smaller amounts of sulfur, nitrogen, oxygen compounds, metals, and other impurities. The term is used in Estonian to refer to raw oil prior to refining. It forms from ancient marine organic matter buried in sediments and transformed by heat and pressure over millions of years, producing a complex mixture of hydrocarbons with varying molecular weights.

Formation and composition: Crude oil is a petroleum-based mixture whose exact composition depends on its source rock and geological history. It can vary in density and viscosity, and in sulfur content, which affects refining behavior and environmental impact. Light and sweet crudes generally require less processing than heavy and sour varieties.

Extraction and transport: Crude oil is extracted by drilling wells, both onshore and offshore. It is often produced alongside natural gas and formation water. After extraction, crude oil typically undergoes basic separation to remove water and particulates and is then transported via pipelines, ships, or rail to refineries.

Refining and products: In refineries, crude oil is processed through distillation and further conversion processes to produce fuels such as gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and aviation fuel, as well as feedstocks for the chemical industry, lubricants, solvents, and asphalt. Refining efficiency and product slate depend on the crude’s properties and the configuration of the refinery.

Environmental and economic context: Oil is a non-renewable resource whose extraction and combustion contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental risk, including spills. The global oil market is influenced by supply, demand, geopolitics, and inventories, with varying prices and strategic importance across regions.

Classification: Crude oils are commonly categorized by API gravity and sulfur content, with light, sweet crudes typically easier to refine than heavy, sour varieties.