- In conclusion on this topic of conventional hydrocarbon traps, I would like to recap what has been presented thus far. First we have our source rocks. This is the organic-rich sediments that have been buried to a depth that sufficient time, heat, and pressure have transformed that organic material into kerogen and then into oil and/or gas. Next we had migration. Hydrocarbons are generated in a relatively high-potential energy environment, and they will migrate from that environment into a lower energy environment which will continue until they either reach a trap, or reach the surface of the Earth. Reservoir. In order to have hydrocarbons that can be produced, they must be discovered in a lithologic sequence that has sufficient porosity such that hydrocarbons can be stored, and adequate permeability such that the stored hydrocarbons can be flowed to the surface, thus produced. Trap. For hydrocarbons to be stored in the reservoir, which by definition has good permeability, which means the hydrocarbons can flow through that interval, a trap must be formed to stop further migration. In the broadest of terms, traps come in two forms. First there is structural traps, such as anticlines or fault blocks, that put reservoir rock in juxtaposition with seals, or impermeable rock, thus forming the trap. The second form of trap, stratigraphic, are those formed due to changes in lithology, from sediments that have good quality porosity and permeability, to sediments that have low value permeability, thus forming the trap. And finally, timing. The elements mentioned thus far must take place in an order, such as the hydrocarbons are generated, migrate into the reservoir, and then trapped in that reservoir, until such a time that they can be discovered and produced. I hope these presentations on hydrocarbon accumulations has given you some insight into what is required for a successful prospect.