Final answer:
Despite a low energy ratio, the production of gasoline from tar sands is pursued due to its high EROEI, the vast reserves in regions such as Alberta, and the need for alternative sources as conventional oil reserves deplete.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ratio of energy needed to generate gasoline from tar sands to the energy content of the gasoline itself, although very low, is surpassed by the high Energy Return on Energy Invested (EROEI) for this process compared to conventional oil sources. Crude oil extraction from tar sands is economically viable despite high energy input requirements partly due to the large reserves in places like Alberta, Canada, implying a significant potential supply. The production method is pursued because the return of energy from the gasoline produced is higher than the energy invested in its production, making it a profitable energy source. Additionally, methods like fracking for natural gas, while having potential environmental risks, are essential for supporting the petroleum industry by providing additional sources of energy as conventional oil resources dwindle.
The extraction process involves heating the tar sands to separate the oil, which is then refined into fuel. As the world's oil reserves get depleted, the need for exploiting alternative sources such as tar sands becomes more pressing even though it's more energy-intensive. While the oil from tar sands has a lower EROEI than conventional oil, technological advancements and the sheer volume of potential oil in regions like Alberta makes it an attractive option for energy production, particularly when oil prices spike or conventional reserves decline.