Reference

The serpentinite mechanism, also known as abiogenic petroleum origin, is supported by various lines of evidence:

1. Natural Analogs of Fischer-Tropsch Process: Serpentinization is considered a natural analog of the Fischer-Tropsch process, which can produce hydrocarbons from inorganic precursors like CO and H2 under certain conditions Wikipedia.

2. High Pressure Favors Formation: Research suggests that high pressure favors the formation of hydrocarbons under subduction zone conditions, where immiscible hydrocarbon fluids can form ScienceDirect.

3. Serpentinization on Celestial Bodies: The serpentinization process can lead to the formation of serpentine group minerals, magnetite, talc, H2, and CH4, which indicates that this process can occur on various celestial bodies NCBI.

4. Abiogenic Hydrocarbons and Deep Life: Abiogenic hydrocarbons and other organic compounds formed through serpentinization provide energy and raw materials for deep life, suggesting a mechanism for hydrocarbon formation Springer.

5. Abyssal Serpentinites: These act as factories for marine salts and oil, with carbonates forming in shallow serpentinites and hydrocarbons occurring at depth ScienceDirect.

6. Reduction of Carbon Dioxide: Methane and complex hydrocarbons are formed through the reduction of carbon dioxide, potentially catalyzed by magnetite formed during serpentinization Wikipedia.

7. Fischer-Tropsch-Type Synthesis: Hydrocarbons are produced through this synthesis between CO2 and H2, the latter formed during serpentinization Mineralogical Society of America.

8. Modern Serpentinization Areas: In modern serpentinization areas in the ocean, hydrocarbons are produced through a Fischer-Tropsch-type synthesis, indicating an active abiogenic hydrocarbon formation process ResearchGate.

This evidence collectively supports the idea that hydrocarbons can be formed via the serpentinite mechanism through various geological processes and under specific conditions.