Fracking A Natural Source Of Clean Energy Essay

Hydraulic fracturing is a technique in which a liquid is injected under high pressure into a well in order to create tiny fissures in the rocks that lie deep beneath the earth; The rocks then allows gas and oil to flow into the well. In fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, drillers inject water, chemicals, sand, or gravel, deep underground to crack open shale rock that can contain huge deposits of oil and gas. Combined with another technique known as horizontal drilling, which is exactly what it sounds like. Fracking is often used as an overall term to describe the whole process of shale energy development, vertical and horizontal drilling, the fracturing process, and the extraction of the oil and gas. Fracking is a controversial debated, both environmental and political issues. Advocates say it is a safe and economical source of clean energy but many critics claim fracking can destroy drinking water supplies, pollute the air, and add to the greenhouse gases that cause global warming. The fracking process starts with a well that is drilled vertically or at an angle from the surface to a depth of 1 to 2 miles, maybe more, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The vertical well is then encased in steel and/or cement to ensure the well doesn t run the risk of leaking into any groundwater. Once the vertical well reaches the deep layer of rock where natural gas or oil exists, the well curves about 90 degrees and begins drilling horizontally along thatShow MoreRelatedFracking And Its Effects On The Economy1589 Words   |  7 PagesThe fracking industry in its entirety, although surrounded by a shroud of controversy, is an economic stimulator that many do not acknowledge. The potential replacement of coal for efficient and clean energy would not be possible if it weren’t for the utilization of hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, and horizontal drilling. 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