Refining 101

 The provided text is an introductory guide to the petroleum refining process. It begins by describing the different types of crude oil and their properties, such as API gravity and sulfur content. Next, it delves into the chemical composition of hydrocarbons, outlining different classifications like alkanes, alkenes, and aromatics. The text then provides an overview of the different types of refineries and the units used in the refining process, including crude distillation, vacuum distillation, catalytic cracking, and coking. Finally, it discusses gasoline blending, octane ratings, and the economic factors involved in refinery operations.