Homonym: Fracturing (Breaking)
Fracturing is a process used to extract natural gas and oil from underground rock formations. It involves injecting a mixture of water, sand, and chemicals at high pressure into the rock, creating fractures that allow the gas or oil to flow more freely. This technique is commonly associated with hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," which has become a significant method for energy production.
The process of fracturing can have environmental impacts, including potential groundwater contamination and increased seismic activity. As a result, it has sparked debates about energy policy and environmental protection, leading to regulations in various regions to manage its use and effects.