Petroleo
In short
A naturally occurring liquid found underground that is used to make fuel, plastics, and chemicals. It is often extracted from the earth through drilling.
In plain words
It is a thick, dark oil found deep beneath the ground. People pump it up to turn it into petrol for cars or heating oil for homes.
A simple example
When you fill up a car at a petrol station, you are using a product made from petroleum.
Why it matters
It provides most of the world's energy and is a key ingredient in making many everyday items. However, burning it releases gases that contribute to climate change.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with 'petrol', which is just one specific type of fuel made from petroleum.