1. n. [Geology]

The interface that separates fluids of different densities in a reservoir. Horizontal contacts are usually assumed, although tilted contacts occur in some reservoirs. The contact between fluids is usually gradual rather than sharp, forming a transition zone of mixed fluid. A mixed-fluid reservoir will stratify according to fluid density, with gas at the top, oil in the middle, and water below. Production of fluids often perturbs the fluid contacts in a reservoir.

See related terms: condensate,  gas-oil contact,  gas-water contact,  oil-water contact,  stratified flow,  transition zone,  wet gas