ABSTRACT

A newly constructed geothermal gradient map of Florida suggests areas with high petroleum potential and the thickness of the potentially petroliferous section. The base of the "potential section" is defined by the depth of the basement and the top is defined by the depth at which the minimum temperature exists for petroleum maturation. Based on previous studies this upper limit is assumed to coincide with the 221°F isotherm depth. A "potential section" map has been prepared which includes all of the presently productive fields and new discoveries within favorable areas. Locations of thick sediment sections of proper temperature for oil occurrence are: the Western Panhandle, a small area of the central Panhandle, and the extreme southwestern part of the peninsula. Over most of most of central and north Florida and in the southernmost Keys the basement may be penetrated before encountering the requisite minimum temperature for petroleum maturation. Tests in these areas run a higher probability of being barren.