FCAT Connections

Sample FCAT readings and questions

Crude oil is the name given to the dark, liquid petroleum extracted from inside the Earth that contains a variety of hydrocarbons. It is commonly bought and sold in the world markets in units known as "barrels". The cost per barrel of crude oil has an important effect on the economy of nations. The consumer price of gasoline is directly proportional to the cost of crude oil. Crude oil must be refined in order to be useful. The refining process is known as fractional distillation. In this process, crude oil is heated. As the temperature rises, certain hydrocarbons in the crude oil begin to vaporize off. These vapors can be condensed and collected. The substances collected include natural gas, gasoline, kerosene, diesel oil, lubricants, etc.

Scientists have found uses for all of the various "waste products" of the crude oil refining process. But in years past, many of the assumed waste products were buried in an effort to dispose of them. As these buried hydrocarbons began to break down, they often caused environmental contamination to the neighboring soil and groundwater. Within the past several decades, communities have become aware of contamination sites in their own neighborhoods. Cleanup efforts are occurring in most communities today.

1. Which statement best explains the impact of crude oil waste products on the environment?