Drilling fluids, also known as drilling muds, are essential substances used in the drilling of wells, particularly in the oil and gas industry. They serve multiple purposes, including cooling and lubricating the drill bit, removing rock cuttings from the wellbore, and maintaining pressure to prevent blowouts. These fluids can be water-based, oil-based, or synthetic, depending on the specific requirements of the drilling operation. The composition of drilling fluids is carefully designed to optimize performance and ensure safety, making them a critical component in the drilling process for oil and natural gas extraction.