1. n. [Formation Evaluation]

A complete section of a conventionally drilled core. The section may be up to about 2 feet [0.6 m] in length, with typical core diameters lying between 1.75 and 5.25 in. [4.4 and 13.3 cm]. The term full-diameter core is also used, but generally refers to shorter sections of about 6 in. [15 cm]. The advantage of whole core analysis is that it measures properties on a larger scale, closer to that of the reservoir. This is particularly important for heterogeneous formations such as many carbonates or fractured materials.

See related terms: core plug,  routine core analysis,  sidewall core