Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
Search
Accessibility Menu

What Is Petroleum? Importance and How to Invest in It

By Motley Fool Staff – Updated Jul 3, 2025 at 1:15AM

Key Points

  • Petroleum, derived from ancient marine organisms, is crucial for making products like plastics and fuels.
  • Nearly half of a crude oil barrel is refined into gasoline, powering most vehicles.
  • The petroleum industry includes upstream production, midstream transport, and downstream sales.
Key findings are powered by ChatGPT and based solely off the content from this article. Findings are reviewed by our editorial team. The author and editors take ultimate responsibility for the content.

Our Guides

Premium Investing Services

Invest better with The Motley Fool. Get stock recommendations, portfolio guidance, and more from The Motley Fool's premium services.