Geology and Hydrocarbon potential ofthe Beaufort Sea, Alaska, based on geophysical data.

Analysis of2D seismic reflection profiles, magnetic anomaly data and four well
logs reveals that the continental shelf of the Beaufort Sea is in many ways, a direct
geological extension ofthe prolific oil and gas province ofthe North Slope of Alaska.
Stratigraphy is divided into four sequences. The organic rich shales are
characterized as potential source rocks and the carbonates and marine to non marine
sandstones are interpreted to be the reservoir rocks.
Structural interpretation has revealed the presence of five structures capable of
trapping hydrocarbons. These structures were identified as the Barrow arch, Camden
anticline, Dinkum graben, shale diapirs and normal faults.
The combination of these structures and stratigraphy offer petroleum exploration
companies a promising target for large accumulations of hydrocarbons.