The word petroleum generally refers to crude oil or the refined products obtained from the processing of crude oil (gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, etc.) We find petroleum products in every area of our lives. They are easily recognized in the gasoline we use to fuel our cars and the heating oil we use to warm our homes. However, petroleum-based components are also used in plastics, medicines, food items, and a host of other products.

For more facts and figure on petroleum, check out the:
Energy Information Administration’s Petroleum 101.