ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Bakken formation

Hey there kiddo, have you heard of the Bakken Formation? It's a really cool thing that's deep underneath the ground. Imagine that the Earth is like a big cake, and the Bakken Formation is like one of the layers inside that cake.

Now, this particular layer is made up of different types of rock and sediment that have been compressed and squished together over millions of years. Some of that rock and sediment are made up of ancient plant and animal matter, like really old mud and dirt.

What's really interesting about the Bakken Formation is that it has lots of oil and gas hiding inside it. Just like how you might find a surprise treat or toy inside a cake, there are pockets of oil and gas trapped inside various parts of the Bakken Formation.

It took a lot of hard work and technology to figure out how to get to those pockets of oil and gas, but people finally did it! They use giant drills to make holes in the ground, and then they use special equipment to pump out the oil and gas.

The Bakken Formation is especially important because it has a lot of oil and gas that can be used to power things like cars and homes. It's a valuable resource that helps people live their everyday lives.

So next time you think about the Earth as a cake, remember that the Bakken Formation is one of the special layers that has a yummy surprise inside!
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