Based on analyses of the case studies of typical hydrocarbon pooling patterns

five types of hydrocarbon pooling patterns are identified

and a new definition for the hydrocarbon pooling pattern is put forward in this paper.According to the study

the elements of hydrocarbon pooling include basic geologic conditions

drive force and medium

mechanism

and process of reservoir evolution

et al.Comprehensive analysis of hydrocarbon pooling patterns should be based on all these elements.Moreover

the method for establishment of each pooling pattern and its range of application should be in accordance with the levels of exploration and research.In practice

one or more of these four elements can be selected as the primary elements

with the others as secondary ones

to establish the hydrocarbon pooling patterns at basin

depression

sag and trap levels respectively.