Petroleum

A comprehensive account of the petroleum industry written in the early 20th century. This publication aims to provide a thorough overview of petroleum, its origins, extraction, and refining processes, intended for a general readership rather than a specialized audience. The text reflects on the significance of petroleum in contemporary society, noting its vital role in fuel, lubrication, and various industries. The opening of the book serves to contextualize petroleum's importance, beginning with the etymology of the term and a discussion of the mineral's origins, debating both organic and inorganic theories. Lidgett highlights the historical references to oil, tracing its usage back to Biblical times and ancient civilizations, before discussing the geological distribution of petroleum reservoirs around the world. The chapter effectively sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the various facets of the petroleum industry, including its exploration, extraction, and refineries, emphasizing the significant advancements made in these areas over the preceding decades.