Petroleum companies are businesses involved in the exploration, extraction, refining, and distribution of crude oil and natural gas. They play a crucial role in the global energy market, providing fuel for transportation, heating, and electricity generation. These companies can range from large multinational corporations to smaller regional firms. The operations of petroleum companies often include drilling for oil, operating refineries to process crude oil into usable products, and managing pipelines for transportation. They also engage in research and development to improve extraction techniques and reduce environmental impacts, as the industry faces increasing scrutiny over its effects on climate change and sustainability.