Which kerogen type is most strongly associated with marine-origin organic matter such as algal detritus and plankton?

Which kerogen type is most strongly associated with marine-origin organic matter such as algal detritus and plankton?

• A. Type II
• B. Type I
• C. Type III
• D. Type IV

Answer: (A)

Marine-origin organic matter, like algal detritus and plankton, tends to become Type II kerogen. This type forms from marine plankton and algae deposited in ocean sediments and is rich enough in hydrogen to generate liquid hydrocarbons (oil) as it matures. In contrast, Type I kerogen comes from algal-rich, often lacustrine (freshwater) sources and is also oil-prone but from a different environment, Type III kerogen comes from terrestrial plant material and is more likely to produce gas, and Type IV is largely inert with little hydrocarbon potential. So, the marine algal/plankton signature fits best with Type II kerogen.

Marine-origin organic matter, like algal detritus and plankton, tends to become Type II kerogen. This type forms from marine plankton and algae deposited in ocean sediments and is rich enough in hydrogen to generate liquid hydrocarbons (oil) as it matures. In contrast, Type I kerogen comes from algal-rich, often lacustrine (freshwater) sources and is also oil-prone but from a different environment, Type III kerogen comes from terrestrial plant material and is more likely to produce gas, and Type IV is largely inert with little hydrocarbon potential. So, the marine algal/plankton signature fits best with Type II kerogen.