ker·o·gen (k r  -jn)n. A fossilized material in shale and other sedimentary rock that yields oil upon heating. [Greek k  ros, wax + -gen.] |
kerogen [ˈkɛrədʒən]
n
(Earth Sciences / Minerals) the solid organic material found in some rocks, such as oil shales, that produces hydrocarbons similar to petroleum when heated
[from Greek kēro(s) wax + -gen]
| kerogen (kr-jn) A fossilized mixture of insoluble organic material that, when heated, breaks down into petroleum and natural gas. Kerogen consists of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur and forms from compacted organic material, including algae, pollen, spores and spore coats, and insects. It is usually found in sedimentary rocks, such as shale. |
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