Light Crude

Light crude oil is a type of crude oil that has a low density and flows more easily than heavier oils.  Its "lightness" is due to a lower concentration of heavy hydrocarbons and a higher proportion of lighter hydrocarbons, like gasoline and diesel, which are easier and less costly to refine.  This makes light crude more desirable on the market, as it generally yields higher-quality, higher-demand products.

Some well-known examples of light crude oils include West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Brent crude, both of which are benchmarks for global oil pricing.

Key Points about Light Crude

API Gravity  -  This is a measure of how "heavy" or "light" a petroleum liquid is compared to water.  Light crude typically has an API gravity above 31 degrees, indicating it is less dense than heavier crudes.
Low Viscosity  -  Light crude is less thick and sticky, making it easier to transport and refine.
Low Sulfur Content  -  Many light crude oils are "sweet," meaning they have a low sulfur content, which is also favorable for refining and reduces environmental pollution upon combustion.