World acclaimed scientist Vaclav Smil reveals everything there is to know about nature's most sought-after resource

Oil is the lifeblood of the modern world. Without it, there would be no planes, no plastic, no exotic produce, and a global political landscape few would recognise. Humanity's dependence upon oil looks set to continue for decades to come, but what is it?

Fully updated and packed with fascinating facts to fuel dinner party debate, Professor Vaclav Smil's Oil: A Beginner's Guide explains all matters related to the 'black stuff', from its discovery in the earth right through to the controversy that surrounds it today.

Figures Preface World of Oil 1. Oil's benefits and burdens 2. What oil is and how it was formed 3. How oil is found and where it has been discovered 4. How oil is produced, transported, and processed 5. How long will oil last Appendix A: Units, abbreviations and their definitions and conversions Appendix B: What's in a barrels? Basic oil properties and measures Appendix C: Short glossary Appendix D: Additional reading and websites Index