Shale has approximately what API?

• A. 100
• B. 80
• C. 60
• D. 120

Answer: (A)

API gravity measures how heavy or light a petroleum liquid is compared with water: the higher the API, the lighter the liquid. Shale liquids are often described as very light relative to conventional crudes, since they can include tight oils and condensates with low densities. Among the options given, the value near the high end best captures that idea of a very light liquid, so it’s the best match for shale in this context. The other numbers correspond to progressively denser liquids, while an API around 100 denotes an exceptionally light liquid—a common quick-quiz shorthand for “very light” in shale discussions.