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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 66 (1982)

Issue: 5. (May)

First Page: 574

Last Page: 574

Title: On the Use of the Modified Lopatin Method: ABSTRACT

Author(s): P. E. Gretener

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

The modified Lopatin method (detailed description in AAPG Course Note Series 17) can provide quick estimates of the state of organic metamorphism. To do so, it is necessary to evaluate the thermal history of a potential source rock. Under favorable conditions, such as uniform burial in an environment of constant geothermal gradient, it is possible to approximate the actual thermal history by a linear temperature rise. For such simple situations, the method yields essentially instantaneous results without the help of any artificial aids. The method is equally applicable to more sophisticated models, but those require a careful analysis of the burial history and an evaluation of the possible changes of the terrestrial heat flow during the lifetime of a source rock.

Examples of the use of the method will be shown and the current limitations imposed by various uncertainties and approximations will be discussed.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists