petroleum compounds

noun

UK /pəˈtrəʊliəm ˈkɒmpaʊndz/

US /pəˈtroʊliəm ˈkɑːmpaʊndz/

Petroleum compounds are tiny bits made from oil that we use to make things like fuel and plastic.

Scientists study petroleum compounds to create new kinds of plastic.

SYNONYMS

oil-based chemicals hydrocarbon compounds petrochemicals crude oil components

RELATED WORDS

petroleum hydrocarbons refinery fuel plastic

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Chemical substances found in or derived from crude oil.

The lab analyzed several petroleum compounds in the sample.

3. Hydrocarbon molecules used as raw materials in industry.

Many petroleum compounds are turned into solvents and lubricants.

4. Mixtures of carbon and hydrogen from oil used to make everyday products.

Petroleum compounds are the building blocks for paints and detergents.