How much does a barrel of oil power?
A barrel of oil contains a variable amount of energy depending on the type of oil and its density. The approximate energy content of a barrel of crude oil is typically around 5.8 million British thermal units (Btu). For reference, one million Btu is roughly equivalent to the energy needed to heat a typical American home for about two weeks. Therefore, a single barrel of oil has enough energy to power the average American home for about two months. However, it's important to note that this is a generalized figure and the actual energy content of a barrel of oil can vary.