What type of sedimentary rock is likely to have a high capacity for oil storage due to its porosity?

Prepare for the Fundamentals of Geology Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your geology test!

The type of sedimentary rock known for having a high capacity for oil storage due to its porosity is sandstone. Sandstone is composed mainly of sand-sized particles, and the spaces between these grains create pores that can store fluids, including oil and natural gas. Its structure allows for significant permeability, meaning that the fluids can move easily through the rock, making it an effective reservoir rock.

In contrast, shale, while it may contain organic materials that can generate oil, generally has lower porosity and permeability than sandstone. Shale's fine-grained nature means it typically traps more liquids within its layers rather than allowing them to migrate freely. Marble is a metamorphic rock formed from limestone and does not have the characteristics necessary for oil storage. Basalt, being an igneous rock, has a very different formation process and also lacks the porosity required to effectively store oil. Thus, sandstone stands out as the rock type best suited for oil storage due to its favorable porosity and permeability characteristics.

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