Does science sometimes seem a bit boring? Why do we need to learn about it? Why Science Matters demonstrates how the science we learn in school is important in every aspect of our everyday lives. Using case studies and investigations, the series describes the development of science and technologies that can improve our lives-or lead to new scientific challenges and controversies.

In Finding and Using Oil, we find out how science and technology help us find, refine, and use the substance also known as "black gold." We learn the importance of understanding the chemistry of hydrocarbons, how they can be separated into useful fuels, and how oil is the basis for plastics. We also discuss the world's oil reserves, their sustainability, and our continued reliance on oil as a fuel.