The importance of a diversified set of analytical tools cannot be overemphasized. We have noted that many published correlation efforts often rely unduly on [[Organic compounds: environmental indicators|biomarker analyses]], often to the exclusion of elemental data and even [[Wikipedia:Isotope geochemistry|stable carbon isotope ratios]]. This reliance on biomarkers undoubtedly arises because of the widespread and rapid availability of molecular data through [[Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS): procedures|gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)]] analysis and is promoted by the existence of a large database of molecular analyses of crude oils. Nevertheless, excessive reliance on a single analytical technique can lead to erroneous correlation conclusions, especially since many of the biomarkers used in correlations are present only in concentrations of a few parts per million. | The importance of a diversified set of analytical tools cannot be overemphasized. We have noted that many published correlation efforts often rely unduly on [[Organic compounds: environmental indicators|biomarker analyses]], often to the exclusion of elemental data and even [[Wikipedia:Isotope geochemistry|stable carbon isotope ratios]]. This reliance on biomarkers undoubtedly arises because of the widespread and rapid availability of molecular data through [[Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS): procedures|gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)]] analysis and is promoted by the existence of a large database of molecular analyses of crude oils. Nevertheless, excessive reliance on a single analytical technique can lead to erroneous correlation conclusions, especially since many of the biomarkers used in correlations are present only in concentrations of a few parts per million. |