On the AAPG website, explain the primary role and key contributions of Paleontology and Biostratigraphy, and Geochemistry, in the field of petroleum exploration. Describe how each discipline helps in finding and understanding oil and natural gas resources.
Navigate to 'aapg.org'. Go to the 'About' section. From 'About', navigate to 'Petroleum Geology'. Within 'Petroleum Geology', navigate to 'Geology and Petroleum'. Find and extract information on the role and key contributions of 'Paleontology and Biostratigraphy' in petroleum exploration. Find and extract information on the role and key contributions of 'Geochemistry' in petroleum exploration. Synthesize the extracted information for both disciplines.
State that Paleontology and Biostratigraphy study prehistoric life forms (fossils) to determine the age of rock layers, which helps petroleum geologists assess the potential for natural resources. State that Geochemistry studies the chemical composition of Earth and how once-living things decompose to form hydrocarbons (oil). Clearly articulate how both disciplines, by providing insights into rock age and hydrocarbon formation, are crucial for petroleum geologists in assessing resource potential.