Title: Distribution of n-paraffins as a clue to recognition of source beds
Abstract: A preference for n-parffins with odd numbers of carbon atoms is widespread in Recent sediments. Analyses of numerous Recent sediment samples indicate that molecules with odd numbers of carbon atoms predominate in the heavy n-paraffins for at least the first few thousand years after deposition. The depositional environments studied include a continental shelf, some ocean basins, bays. fresh-water lakes, a saline lake and soils. In contrast, the heavy n-paraffins in a representative selection of crude oils are evenly distributed between molecules of even- and odd-carbon number. Analyses of a limited number of postulated source rocks showed no preference in the heavy n-paraifins for molecules of either odd- or even-carbon number. Some shales and limestones ranging from Eocene to Mississippian in age have been examined for possible application of the n-paraffin distribution to recognition of source beds.
Publication Year: 1961
Publication Date: 1961-02-01
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 1705
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