Crude oils produced by Indian oil fields are predominantly of which general type based on hydrocarbon family dominance?

Introduction:
Crude oils are often classified as paraffinic, naphthenic, asphaltic, or mixed base depending on their predominant hydrocarbon families. This broad classification provides a quick sense of expected product slates and processing behavior.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Indian oil fields include offshore (e.g., western offshore) and onshore assets.
• We seek the general, predominant classification commonly referenced in industry MCQs and survey tables.

Concept / Approach:
Paraffinic base crudes characteristically exhibit higher characterisation factors and are often associated with higher yields of lighter fractions and lube base stocks. Indian crudes are commonly cited as predominantly paraffinic in standard exam references, recognizing local variability and some mixed-base occurrences.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map commonly cited classification → paraffinic for many Indian crudes.Acknowledge variability but pick the predominant category used in foundational references.

Verification / Alternative check:
Educational summaries frequently list Indian crudes as paraffinic-dominant; specific assays may show mixed tendencies, but the prevailing teaching answer is paraffinic.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Naphthenic/asphaltic: Do not represent the majority classification in standard references.Mixed base: Too noncommittal for the predominant-type question.

Common Pitfalls:
Overgeneralizing from a single crude assay; the question asks for broad predominance, not a universal rule.

Final Answer:
Paraffinic