What Is fracking?

Fracking is the process in which gas is extracted from shale. Deep holes are drilled into the earth in which a slurry of water, sand and other chemicals are pumped in at high pressure. Water does not compress under pressure so it is forced into the surrounding shale rock which has lots of tiny holes and pockets that hold natural gas and oil. The sand is important becasue it keeps the newly formed holes and cracks propped open after the water is evacuated from the hole. After the gas is extracted the fracking chemicals are pumped back into the hole as a way to store the hazardous waste.

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when was fracking first introduced

Fracking was first commercially used in 1949, over 60 years ago. The main difference between fracking then and modern fracking is horizontal drilling, which allows one fracking hole to cover a larger area, and the chemicals used in the fracking process.

why is fracking relevent

Fracking is relevant due to its abundance. It is said that 95% of natural gas produced domestically is from fracking. This gas is burned and used used to generate electricity which powers our homes and devices. ​

who does it affect

Fracking affects everyone, from its importance in the economy to the energy created with natural gas. Not only that but fracking negatively affects us as well by releasing greenhouse gasses, increasing our dependance on fossil fuels, and polluting fresh water resources.