Kerogen

Kerogen is a mixture of organic materials found in sedimentary rocks, formed from the remains of plants, algae, and other organisms buried over millions of years. It acts as a sort of natural, organic-rich "source material" for oil and gas. When heated deep underground, kerogen breaks down through a process called pyrolysis, releasing hydrocarbons that can be extracted and refined into fuels like oil and natural gas. In essence, kerogen is the raw organic substance hidden within rocks that, with the right conditions, transforms into these vital energy resources.