THOMSEN, RENE ORLA, Saga Petroleum, a.s., Sandvika, Norway; ANNE-MARIE JEPSEN, Aarhus Univ., Arhus, Denmark; and FREDERIC MAUBEUGE, Univ. of South Carolina, Columbia, SC

ABSTRACT: Sensitivity Analysis and Data Resolution: Important Aspects of Quantitative Basin Analysis

Quantitative basin analysis is routinely used in assessing volume estimates of generated hydrocarbons in basins and sub-basins. For this, computer simulation in one and two-dimensions is often used. Important questions to be answered in any quantitative assessment are the resolution limits of any given set of parameters and the sensitivity of the total system to variation within the range of these parameters. These assessments, which should reveal the critical features of any given system, have become more feasible thanks to the growing availability of the new generation of powerful hardware. Examples will be shown of how sensitivity analysis and investigation of data resolution can provide useful information for further prospect evaluation. The chosen examples will focus on kinetic p rameters for hydrocarbon generation, expulsion parameters and variation in less constrained geological knowledge such as timing and amount of erosion and paleoheat flux.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90987©1993 AAPG Annual Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana, April 25-28, 1993.