Oil shale is a type of sedimentary rock that contains a mixture of organic materials, including kerogen, which can be converted into oil and gas through a process called pyrolysis. This rock is found in various locations around the world and is considered a potential source of energy. Extracting oil from oil shale typically involves mining the rock and then heating it to release the hydrocarbons. While it offers an alternative energy source, the process can be environmentally challenging and requires significant water and energy resources, raising concerns about its sustainability compared to traditional fossil fuels.