The heat field of petroliferous regions of Ciscaucasia

Abstract

Heat-flow values at 34 new sites have been calculated on the basis of heat-conductivity data for the territory of Ciscaucasia. By adding previous data, the total number of heat-flow determinations is 150, and the overall spread of its values is from 0.65 to 3. 38 μ cal/cm2/sec. Principal features of heat-flow distribution in Ciscaucasia result from a clear association between the geothermal parameters and the geologic-tectonic structure of the region. The overall pattern in heat-flow distribution is the universal distrotion of the heat field by anticlinal structures associated with oil and gas fields. The values for heat generation in the crust and the subcrustal layers of the principal tectonic structures of Ciscaucasia have been assessed on the basis of content of radioactive elements. Intense subcrustal heat sources are not r e quired for the formation of hydrocarbons in the crust and their subsequent transformation. Moreover, crustal energy for achieving these processes is completely adequate, such as...