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Refining the crude oil is a series of complex processes that refineries use to manufacture finished petroleum products. While refining begins with a simple step of distillation where the crude is heated and the different petroleum components are separated, more sophisticated processes and equipment are required to produce the ultimate petroleum products that are in high demand in the market.
Crude oil is converted to heavier lower value products like residual fuel oil which is used to power large ocean-faring ships; middle distillates like jet fuel, kerosene, home heating oil and diesel fuel; and lighter and higher value petroleum products like liquid petroleum gas, naphtha and gasoline.
In the US, crude oil is imported primarily from the Middle East, although the nation has its own oilfields. Crude oil is measured in barrels and a 42-US gallon barrel of crude oil gives approximately 44 gallon of petroleum products. One barrel of crude oil when it is processed and refined give approximately 20 gallons of finished motor gasoline and 7 gallons of diesel as well as other products.
Crude oil usage in USA is mostly for energy. For instance, many people across the nation use propane to heat their homes and fuel their cars. Other products that are made from crude oil include ink, crayons, bubble gum, dishwashing liquids, lubricants, deodorants, eyeglasses, records, tires, ammonia and even artificial heart valves.
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The entire world is worried about the current crude oil prices. Last year, around the same time, one would not have thought that crude oil prices would be hitting the roof like they are doing now. 
