Crude oil is a naturally occurring petroleum resource composed of hydrocarbons and organic materials. It is a cornerstone of the global energy system, serving as the primary raw material for fuels, petrochemicals, and industrial products.

Extracted through onshore and offshore drilling, crude oil is refined via processes like distillation and cracking to produce gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, lubricants, and chemical feedstocks.

Its applications span transportation, energy generation, plastics, and construction materials like asphalt. While essential to modern industry, crude oil also poses sustainability challenges, making responsible production and cleaner logistics increasingly important in today's energy landscape.