A method of mining in which cracks are created in a type of rock called shale to extract gas, oil or other substances contained within it.
Fracking (hydraulic fracturing) involves the injection of water with additives (sand plus lubricating fluids) at high pressure through boreholes into subterranean rocks. The pressure generated in the rocks open natural fissures causing gas and oil captive in the rock to be released.
Fracking is a controversial method of gas and oil extraction that causes environmental concerns due to the possible contamination of water sources. It has been readily adopted in the US and has drastically reduced the country’s reliance on oil imports. The UK has been more cautious; however, the pressure is growing for fracking to take place. Any attempt to introduce fracking on a widespread basis in the UK is likely to be met with vigorous opposition from environmental groups.
fracking
a method of mining in which cracks are created in a type of rock called shale in order to obtain gas, oil, or other substances that are inside it
Fracking was the likely cause of some small earth tremors that happened during shale gas drilling.
