Old and new versions of the alpha radiation theory of petroleum origin

Evidence accumulated over the years allows a demonstration of the energetic feasibility of a modern version of the old alpha radiation theory of petroleum origin. This theory is revisited and examined critically under new light to be reformulated by taking advantage of relevant interdisciplinary data not available when the old alpha radiation theory was suggested, developed and then discredited. The geological ages accepted for the formation of most of the known petroleum reserves are within a range that makes long-lived natural alpha emitters a feasible energy source for at least part of the energy necessary for the formation of petroleum hydrocarbon