Course content

The carbon cycle results in the fixation of carbon dioxide in living organisms, and, under specific conditions, accumulation of organic matter (OM) in rocks - sometimes in the form of source rocks (SRs) and coal. This process has occurred on the planet for more than 3.8 billion years, producing oxygen as a by-product, while steadily reducing atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide by the formation of carbonate rocks.

Sedimentary rocks include both carbonate rocks and siliciclastic rocks (shales/sandstones), and both can contain OM and SRs. These rock systems are central as a source for reduced carbon and constitute important parts of "Petroleum Systems".?Source rocks (SRs) form oil and gas and are classified according to the quality and quantity of their organic content which is determined by organic productivity and the depositional conditions of the paleo-environment.

In this course, we seek process understanding concerning the carbon cycle, SR?f