HORIZON Distinct layer or group of layers of rock.
HYDROCARBONS Organic chemical compounds of hydrogen and carbon whose densities, boiling points, and freezing points increase as their molecular weights increase. The molecular structure of the most common petroleum hydrocarbon compounds varies from the simplest - methane, a constituent of natural gas - to the very heavy and complex.
IMPERMEABLE ROCKA rock with restricted or poorly-communicating pore spaces, such that hydrocarbons will not flow through it.
INFILL DRILLING Drilling of wells according to a planned pattern and spacing to achieve full production from a new field.
IN PLACEDescription of the total hydrocarbon content of a reservoir, as distinct from 'Reserves' which can be 'recovered' or produced. Oil or gas in place (OIP, GIP) before the start of production is known as Oil or Gas Originally in Place or Initially in Place. (e.g. STOOIP = Stock Tank Oil Originally in Place; GIIP = Gas Initially in Place).
JARSDown hole tools inserted in the drill-string when fishing to jerk or jar the fish free by repeated sudden blows. They may also be used while drilling to avoid the drill-string becoming stuck.
JOINTA single length of pipe. Coupled or welded to other lengths, joints become a string. The term joint may also refer to the couplings or joints themselves.
JUNKAny unwanted object 'lost' down a well.
KELLY Square or hexagonal steel pipe about 43 feet (13 metres).
KILLING A WELL The act of bringing a well under control which has blown out or is threatening to blow out; also applies to the procedure of circulating water and mud into a completed well before starting well service operations.