Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Period End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts Payable Accounts Payable, Current Less: Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Additional Paid in Capital Items Not Requiring (Providing) Cash Compensation expense related to the company's stock-based compensation plans Stock-based compensation expense related to stock options, SAR and ESPP grants Antidilutive Stock Options and SARs excluded from Diluted Earnings Per Share Calculation Carrying Amount at Beginning of Period Carrying Amount at End of Period Asset Retirement Obligation Accretion Current Portion Noncurrent Portion Foreign Currency Translations Liabilities Incurred Asset Retirement Obligations [Abstract] Liabilities Settled (1) Asset Retirement Obligations [Text Block] Revisions ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Total Assets, Current Total Assets Total Assets Financial Assets: Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Estimated fair value of contingent consideration at acquisition date Haynesville asset acquisition total consideration recorded Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Accrued Capital Expenditures Capital Lease Obligations, Current Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Additions Pending the Determination of Proved Reserves Exploratory Well Costs [Abstract] Capitalized exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period greater than one year Charged to Dry Hole Costs Balance at December 31, 2011 Balance at September 30, 2012 Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Capitalized exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period less than one year Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Current Assets Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Text Block] Commercial Paper [Member] Commitments and Contingencies [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8) Common Stock, $0.01 Par, 640,000,000 Shares Authorized and 271,323,486 Shares Issued at September 30, 2012 and 269,323,084 Shares Issued at December 31, 2011 Common Stock, Shares Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Dividends Declared per Common Share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Common Stock, Par Value Common Stock, Shares Authorized Pension and Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Operating Expenses Cost of Revenue [Abstract] Total Costs and Expenses Total Long-Term Debt Debt Instrument Table [Table] Fair Value of Debt Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument Issuance Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument Offering Date Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument Issuance Interest Rate Deferred Income Taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Taxes Deferred Income Taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Deferred Income Taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Derivative Liabilities, Current Other Assets Derivative Assets, Noncurrent Derivatives, Fair Value, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Collateral Held on Derivative Financial Assets: Crude Oil Derivative Contracts Derivative [Line Items] Risk Management Activities [Text Block] Assets from Price Risk Management Activities Derivatives Assets, Current Derivative Assets, Current Derivative [Table] Risk Management Activities [Abstract] Derivative Collateral [Abstract] Other Liabilities Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract] Divestitures [Abstract] Divestitures [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Net Income Per Share Denominator for Basic Earnings per Share - [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Diluted Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Average Number of Common Shares Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share - [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Net Income Per Share [Text Block] Net Income Per Share [Abstract] Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash Stock based compensation by job function [Line Items] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock option and SAR grants Excess Tax Benefits from Stock-Based Compensation Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Excess Tax Benefits from Stock-Based Compensation Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Exploration Costs Exploration Expense Fair Value Measurements [Abstract] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Contingent Consideration Fair Value Measurements [Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table] Financial Liabilities: Foreign Currency Rate Swap Gains on Asset Dispositions, Net Gains (Losses) on Sales of Assets General and Administrative Impairments Income Tax Provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Taxes, Net of Refunds Received Income Taxes Receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Accrued Taxes Payable Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Taxes Payable Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Changes in Components of Working Capital and Other Assets and Liabilities Other Assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Accounts Receivable Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Stock Options/SARs Interest Costs Capitalized Interest Expense, Net Interest Expense Financial Liabilities: Interest Rate Swap Interest (1) Interest Paid, Net Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract] Total Liabilities, Current Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Financial Liabilities: Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Long-term Debt [Text Block] Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Natural Gas Financing Cash Flows Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Investing Cash Flows Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net Income Net Income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Interest Rate Swap, Notional Amount Oil and Gas Properties (Successful Efforts Method) Crude Oil and Condensate Operating Income Operating Income (Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other, Net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other Other Assets, Current Other Assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Common stock exchanged for Barnett Shale Combo purchase on the closing date After-Tax Net Impact Other Comprehensive Income Increase (Decrease) From The Foreign Currency Swap Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Other Other Liabilities, Current Other Income, Net Other Liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other Assets [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Debt Issuance Costs Treasury Stock Purchased Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Additions to Oil and Gas Properties Payments to Acquire Oil and Gas Property and Equipment Dividends Paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends Additions to Other Property, Plant and Equipment Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment Pension and Postretirement Benefits [Text Block] Total pension plan costs Other, Net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Long-Term Debt Borrowings Common Stock Sold Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Proceeds from Sales of Assets Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised and Employee Stock Purchase Plan Number of exploratory wells that have been capitalized for a period greater than one year Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Other Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Total Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Total Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Reclassifications to Proved Properties Assets by Reportable Segment Repayment of Capital Lease Obligation Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Compensation Cost Dry Hole Costs Retained Earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total Net Operating Revenues Net Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Aggregate Intrinsic Value For Exercisable Units Average Borrowings Outstanding ESPP Activity Aging of Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Rollforward Analysis Net Cash Paid For Interest and Income Taxes Weighted Average Fair Values and Valuation Assumptions Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit Transactions Computation of Net Income Per Share Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule Of Employee Service Share-Based Compensation, Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Estimated Future Employer-Paid Benefits Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs Commodity Derivative Contracts - Crude Oil Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Stock Options and SARs Transactions Selected Information [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Selected Financial Information by Reportable Segment Schedule of Derivative Instruments In Statement Of Financial Position, Fair Value Selected Information [Line Items] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Abstract] Segment Information [Abstract] Segment Information [Text Block] Segment Information [Domain] Weighted Average Grant Price Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Rollforward [Abstract] Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit [Roll Forward] Stock-Based Compensation Expenses Share-based Compensation Forfeited - Price per Share Intrinsic value of restricted stock and restricted stock units released during the year (in millions) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Intrinsic Value Granted Granted - Price Per Share Exercised - Price Per Share Risk-Free Interest Rate (in hundredths) Expected Volatility (in hundredths) Stock Options/SARs Exercisable at September 30 (price per share) Dividend Yield (in hundredths) Weighted Average Fair Value of Grants Intrinsic value of stock options/SARs exercised during the period Stock Options/SARs Exercisable at September 30 (in shares) Common Shares Available for Grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Stock Options and SARs Rollforward [Abstract] Forfeited Stock options/SARs vested or expected to vest (in shares) Summary Information By Grant Price Range For Stock Options And SARs Outstanding And Exercisable At End Of Period [Line Items] Outstanding at January 1 - Price per Share Outstanding at September 30 - Price per Share Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value For Outstanding Options and SARs Intrinsic value of stock options/SARs vested or expected to vest Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Weighted average grant price for stock options/SARs vested or expected to vest (per share) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Pretax gain recognized from sale of California assets Approximate proceeds received from the sales of producing properties and acreage Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Segment Information [Axis] Exercised (1) Stockholders' Equity Total Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Exploratory Well Costs [Text Block] Accrued Taxes Payable Taxes Payable, Current Common Stock Held in Treasury, 473,624 Shares at September 30, 2012 and 303,633 Shares at December 31, 2011 Treasury Stock, Value Common Stock Held in Treasury, Shares Treasury Stock, Shares Total Gains Gains on Mark-to-Market Commodity Derivative Contracts Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives and Commodity Contracts Mark-to-Market Commodity Derivative Contracts Potential Dilutive Common Shares -[Abstract] Weighted Average Shares Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Adjusted Diluted Weighted Average Shares Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract] Revenue from the sale of natural gas liquids. Natural Gas Liquids Revenues related to sales of third-party natural gas, crude oil and condensate and natural gas liquids, and gathering fees associated with gathering third-party natural gas. Gathering, Processing and Marketing The total amount of net operating revenues, not previously categorized. Other, Net Other, Net Costs to operate and maintain natural gas and crude oil wells, cost of workovers and lease and well administrative expenses. Lease and Well Costs associated with the delivery of hydrocarbon products from the lease to a downstream point of sale. Transportation Costs Operating and maintenance expenses and administrative expenses associated with operating gathering and processing assets. Gathering and Processing Costs Costs of purchasing third-party natural gas and crude oil and the related transportation costs. Marketing Costs Taxes other than income taxes, if not included elsewhere, could include, property tax or other selling and distribution-related taxes. Taxes Other Than Income Income Before Interest Expense and Income Taxes. Income Before Interest Expense and Income Taxes Income Before Interest Expense and Income Taxes Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest. Income Before Income Taxes Income Before Income Taxes Income Before Income Taxes Comprehensive Income (Loss) Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Comprehensive Income The portion of consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. If the entity does not present consolidated financial statements, the amount of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes. Net Income Loss Relating To Comprehensive Income Net Income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Change in fair value of foreign currency swap transaction accounted for using the hedge accounting method. Foreign Currency Swap Transaction Foreign Currency Swap The tax effect of the foreign currency swap transaction. Income Tax Related To Foreign Currency Swap Transaction Income Tax Related to Foreign Currency Swap Change in fair value of interest swap transaction accounted for using the hedge accounting method. Interest Swap Transactions Interest Rate Swap The tax effect of the interest swap transaction. Income Tax Related to Interest Swap Transactions Income Tax Related to Interest Rate Swap Other Comprehensive Income including defined benefit plans adjustments before tax portion attributable to parent and the income tax related to defined benefit pension and postretirement plans. Other Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer). Inventories Inventories Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of dividends declared but unpaid on equity securities issued by the entity and outstanding. For classified balance sheets, used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer); for unclassified balance sheets, used to reflect the total liabilities (regardless of due date). Dividends Payable Total Dividends Payable Common Stock Common Stock Common Stock Treasury Stock Treasury Stock Treasury Stock The net gain or loss resulting from the sale, transfer, termination, or other disposition of assets during the period, excluding transactions involving capital leases, assets-held- or available-for-lease, and other real estate owned which, to the extend appropriate, are included in gains (losses) on the disposition of assets in nonoperating income (expense). Gains Losses On Property Dispositions, Net Gains on Asset Dispositions, Net This element reflects realized gain (loss) on the settlement of financial commodity derivative instruments. Realized Gains (Losses) Realized Gains The cash inflows/outflows from operating activities not classfied elsewhere. Other, Net Excluding Gains Losses Other, Net The net change during the reporting period of all current assets and liabilities used in investing and financing activities. Changes in Components of Working Capital Associated with Investing and Financing Activities The net change during the reporting period of all current assets and liabilities used in investing and financing activities. Changes in Components of Working Capital Associated with Investing Activities Changes in Components of Working Capital Associated with Investing Activities Description containing the entire pension and other postretirement benefits disclosure and share-based payment (SFAS 123R) disclosure as a single block of text. Pension And Postretirement Benefits Disclosure And Stock Based Compensation Disclosure [TextBlock] Stock-Based Compensation [Text Block] Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Aggregate awards of share options and nonvested shares to be issued under a share-based compensation arrangement are considered options for purposes of diluted earnings per share (DEPS). Share-based awards considered outstanding at grant date when computing DEPS although exercise may be vesting contingent. Share-based awards are included in DEPS computation even if employee may not receive (or sell) the stock until future date. All shares to be issued shall be included in computing DEPS, if dilutive. Incremental Common Shares Attributable To Share Based Payment Arrangements Nonvested Stock And Units Restricted Stock/Units and Performance Units/Stock Denominator For Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Denominator for Diluted Earnings per Share - [Abstract] Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders [Abstract] Net Income Per Share [Abstract] Name or caption of a line item on the balance sheet or income statement which was increased or decreased by share-based compensation costs during the period. Specifically, the Lease and Well category. Lease And Well [Member] Name or caption of a line item on the balance sheet or income statement which was increased or decreased by share-based compensation costs during the period. Specifically, the Gathering and Processing Costs category. Gathering And Processing Costs [Member] Name or caption of a line item on the balance sheet or income statement which was increased or decreased by share-based compensation costs during the period. Specifically, the Exploration cost category. Exploration Costs [Member] Name or caption of a line item on the balance sheet or income statement which was increased or decreased by share-based compensation costs during the period. Specifically, the General and Administrative category. General And Administrative [Member] Summary Information By Grant Price Range For Stock Options And SARs Outstanding And Exercisable At End Of Period [Table] Shares Outstanding, By Grant Price Range [Axis] Shares Outstanding Under Stock Option Plans, Grant Price Range [Domain] Weighted average remaining contractual term of exercisable stock options. Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Exercisable Options and SARs (in years) Weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation is expected to be recognized for equity-based compensation plans. Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awds, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized (in years) Stock options and stock-settled stock appreciations rights (SARS) Stock Options And Sars [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Espp [Member] Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units [Member] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Disclosures [Line Items] Stock Options/SARs and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Disclosures [Line Items] Weighted Average Fair Value And Valuation Assumptions Used To Value Stock Based Compensation [Abstract] Weighted Average Fair Value And Valuation Assumptions Used To Value Stock Options/SARs, ESPP, and Performance Units/Stock Stock Based Compensation [Abstract] Expected term of share-based compensation awards represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Life Expected Life (in years) The number of shares reserved for issuance under stock option and stock appreciation right agreements awarded under the plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date, including vested options. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Outstanding Number Outstanding at January 1 Outstanding at September 30 Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Additional Disclosures Abstract [Abstract] Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Stock Option/SAR [Abstract] Weighted average remaining contractual life for stock options/SARs vested or expected to vest. Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Stock Options/SARs Vested or Expected to Vest Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Stock Options/SARs Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life for Stock Options/SARs Outstanding The number of outstanding awards of restricted stock and nits for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments to a grantee who has not yet satisfied service criteria necessary under the agreement. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Nonvested Number Outstanding at January 1 Outstanding at September 30 (2) The aggregate number of restricted (non-vested) stock shares or restricted stock units granted during the period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Grants In Period Granted The aggregate number of restricted (non-vested) stock shares or restricted stock units released to grantees during the period. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Vested In Period Released (1) The aggregate number of restricted (non-vested) stock shares or units forfeited during the period due to the failure to satisfy vesting conditions. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Forfeited In Period Forfeited As of the latest balance-sheet date presented, the total compensation cost related to outstanding, nonvested share-based restricted stock compensation awards not yet recognized (will be charged against earnings as services are performed or other vesting criteria are met). Employee Service Share Based Compensation Unrecognized Compensation Costs On Nonvested Restricted Stock Awards The weighted average period over which unrecognized share-based restricted stock compensation costs are expected to be reported. Employee Service Share Based Compensation Unrecognized Compensation Costs On Nonvested Restricted Stock Awards Weighted Average Period Of Recognition The grant date weighted average fair value of restricted (non-vested) stock and unit awards for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to a grantee who has not yet satisfied service criteria under the agreement. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Nonvested Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at January 1 - Price (per share) Outstanding at September 30 - Price (per share) Average fair value of restricted stock shares and units granted during the period. Share Based Payment Award Restricted Stock And Unit Average Grant Price Granted - Price (per share) Average fair value of restricted stock shares and units released to grantees during the period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Releases In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Released - Price (per share) Average fair value of restricted stock shares and units forfeited by grantees during the period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Option Forfeited In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited - Price (per share) The aggregate intrinsic value of restricted stock and restricted stock units outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Aggregate Intrinsic Value Of Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Aggregate Intrinsic Value Of Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Outstanding United States [Member] Canada [Member] Trinidad [Member] Other International [Member] The net amount of other nonoperating income and expense (other than interest), which does not qualify for separate disclosure on the income statement under materiality guidelines. Other Nonoperating Income Expense Excluding Interest Other Income, Net The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Interest Expense, Net Interest Expense, Net This summarizes the net changes in the suspended well costs. Net Changes In Suspended Well Costs Net Changes In Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Additions or deductions to capitalized exploratory well costs that resulted from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Capitalized Exploratory Well Cost Foreign Currency Translations Foreign Currency Translations The number of exploratory wells that have been capitalized for a period of greater than one year after the completion of drilling related to an outside operated, offshore Central North Sea project in the United Kingdom. Number of Exploratory Wells Related To Outside Operated Offshore Central North Sea Project In United Kingdom Number of exploratory wells related to an outside operated, offshore Central North Sea project in the United Kingdom The number of exploratory wells that have been capitalized for a period of greater than one year after the completion of drilling related to shale projects in British Columbia. Number Of Exploratory Wells Related To Shale Projects In British Columbia Number of exploratory wells related to a shale project in British Columbia, Canada The amount of exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period of greater than one year after the completion of drilling related to an outside operated, offshore Central North Sea project in the United Kingdom Costs Related To Outside Operated Offshore Central North Sea Projects In United Kingdom Exploratory well costs related to an outside operated, offshore Central North Sea project in the United Kingdom The amount of exploratory well costs that have been capitalized for a period of greater than one year after the completion of drilling related to shale projects in British Columbia. Costs Related To Shale Project In British Columbia Exploratory well costs related to a shale project in British Columbia, Canada Schedule of Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit and Contributions Plans Disclosures, defined Benefit and Contribution Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit and Contribution Plans [Domain] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Domain] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis [Line Items] Financial commodity price swap contract which provides the counterparty option to enter into a price swap contract at a later date. Natural Gas Swaptions Financial Assets: Crude Oil Options/Swaptions Financial Assets: Natural Gas Derivative Contracts Financial Assets: Natural Gas Options/Swaptions Net dollar amount capitalized on balance sheet representing an enterprise's interests in proved crude oil (including condensate and natural gas liquids) and/or natural gas properties. Proved Oil And Gas Property Carrying Amount Proved Oil and Gas Properties and Other Property, Plant and Equipment Written Down to Fair Value During the Period - Carrying Amount Fair value of proved oil and gas property and other property, plant and equipment as of the balance sheet date. Proved Oil And Gas Property Fair Value Proved Oil and Gas Properties and Other Property, Plant and Equipment Written Down During the Period - Fair value at End of Period The expense recorded to reduce the value of oil and gas assets consisting of proved properties as the estimate of future successful production from these properties is reduced. Impairment Charge for Shallow Natural Gas Assets Sold in Canada Impairment Charge for Proved Oil and Gas Properties and Other Property, Plant and Equipment, in which EOG utilized an accepted offer from a third-party buyer The expense recorded to reduce the value of property, plant and equipment to estimated fair value when circumstances indicate such property, plant and equipment has been impaired and to reduce the value of oil and gas assets consisting of proved properties as the estimate of future successful production from these properties is reduced. Impairment Charge For Proved Oil And Gas Properties And Other Property, Plant And Equipment Derivative contracts table Derivative Contracts Table - Natural Gas [Text Block] Commodity Derivative Contracts - Natural Gas Crude Oil Derivative Contracts January - February [Member] Natural Gas Derivative Contracts January - July [Member] Natural Gas Derivative Contracts January - October [Member] Natural Gas Derivative Contracts Year Two January - December [Member] Natural Gas Derivative Contracts Year Three January - December [Member] Natural Gas Derivative Contracts - August - December [Member] Natural Gas Derivative Contracts - November - December [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts January - June Year Two [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts March - June [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts July - August [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts October - December [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts September [Member] Identification of the name or type of counterparty to the derivative instrument. Natural Gas Derivative, Counterparty Volume (MMBtu) Aggregate notional amount of derivative expressed in nonmonetary units. For example the number of barrels specified in a forward purchase contract. Derivative Nonmonetary Notional Amount Crude Oil Volume (Bbld) Aggregate notional volumes associated with swaption contracts. Volumes (MMBtud) - Swaption Contracts Volumes (MMBtud) - Derivative Option Contracts Derivative instrument average price per unit Average Price MMBtu Swaption Contracts Average Price ($/MMBtu) - Derivative Option Contracts The weighted average price for a series of crude oil derivative contracts. Derivative Weighted Average Price Crude Oil Derivative Weighted Average Price Crude Oil ($/Bbl) The weighted average price for a series of natural gas derivative contracts. Derivative Weighted Average Price Natural Gas Derivative Weighted Average Price Natural Gas ($/MMBtu) Aggregate notional volumes associated with derivative contracts. Volumes (Bbld) - Derivative Option Contracts Derivative instrument average price per unit. Average Price ($/Bbl) - Derivative Option Contracts Proceeds from settled financial price swap contracts Proceeds from settled financial derivative contracts Proceeds from financial derivative contracts settled during the period Crude Oil and Natural Gas Derivative Contracts [Member] Foreign Currency Swap [Member] Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included. Assets From Price Risk Management Activities [Member] Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Derivative [Abstract] The after-tax net impact from the interest rate swap that is included in Other Comprehensive Income. After-Tax Net Impact From Interest Rate Swap After-Tax Net Impact From Interest Rate Swap Estimated proceeds from the sale of producing properties and acreage. EstimatedProceedsFromSalesOfProducingPropertiesAndAcreage Estimated Proceeds from Sales of Producing Properties and Acreage The number of Canadian shallow gas transactions completed in 2010. Property Transactions Completed Canadian Shallow Gas Canadian shallow gas sale transactions completed The value of all consideration received by the Entity in the sale of Canadian shallow natural gas assets. Proceeds From Sale Of Canadian Shallow Gas Assets Proceeds received on sale of Canadian shallow gas assets Impairment recorded to adjust Canadian shallow gas assets to fair value, less cost to sell Impairment recorded to adjust Canadian shallow gas assets to fair value, less cost to sell The value of all consideration received by the Entity on sales of non-core producing properties and acreage during 2010 Proceeds From Sale Of NonCore Producing Properties And Acreage Aggregate proceeds received on sales non-core producing properties and acreage Percent ownership interest in planned Canadian liquefied natural gas plant. PercentInterestInPlannedLNGFacility Interest in planned liquefied natural gas plant (in hundredths) Percent ownership interest in planned natural gas pipeline PercentInterestInPlannedNaturalGasPipeline Interest in planned natural gas pipeline (in hundredths) Ownership percentage in planned natural gas pipelineby the operator expressed as a percentage. OwnershipPercentageByOperator Partner Percentage of planned natural gas pipeline owned by operator (in hundredths) Ownership percentage in planned LNG facility by the operating partner expressed as a percentage. OtherOwnershipPercentageByOperator Partner Percentage of planned LNG export terminal owned by operator (in hundredths) Purchase price to acquire common stock of Galveston LNG PurchasePriceToAcquireCommonStockOfGalvestonLNG Purchase price to acquire common stock of Galveston LNG Additional ownership interest acquired in planned natural gas pipeline during the first quarter of 2011 AdditionalInterestAcquiredInPlannedNaturalGasPipeline Additional interest acquired in planned natural gas pipeline (in hundredths) Total purchase price to acquire additional interest in planned natural gas pipeline PurchasePriceToAcquireAdditionalInterestInPlannedPipeline Purchase price to acquire additional interest in planned natural gas pipeline Portion of total purchase price to acquire additional interest in planned natural gas pipeline to be paid at closing PortionOfPurchasePricepaidAtClosing Portion of purchase price to acquire additional interest in planned natural gas pipeline paid at closing Portion of total purchase price to acquire additional interest in planned natural gas pipeline which is contingent upondecision to proceed with planned LNG facility ContingentPortionOfPurchasePriceForInterestInPipeline Contingent portion of purchase price to acquire additional interest in planned natural gas pipeline Total ownership interest in planned natural gas pipeline after the acquisition of additional interest in first quarter of 2011 PercentInterestInPlannedNaturalGasPipelineAfterAcquisitionOfAdditionalInterestIn2011 Interest in planned natural gas pipeline after acquisition of additional ownership interest in first quarter of 2011 (in hundredths) Additional ownership percentage in planned natural gas pipeline acquired by the operator expressed as a percentage. AdditionalOwnershipPercentageAcquiredByOperator Additional percentage of planned natural gas pipeline acquired by operator (in hundredths) Total ownership percentage in planned natural gas pipeline by operator after acquisition of additional ownership interest in 2011 TotalOwnershipPercentageOfOperatorInPlannedPipeliner Total percentage of planned natural gas pipeline to be owned by operator (in hundredths) Represents the difference between the fair value of property received and the book basis of property given up in an exchange transaction. Gain On Property Exchange Pretax gain realized on a natural gas property exchange The percentage of the company's total production represented by the assets sold. Percentage Of Production Represented By Assets Sold Percentage of production represented by assets sold (in hundredths) Period of time included in the acquisition agreement to achieve certain conditions. Acquisition Agreement Contingency Period Acquisition agreement contingency period The number of completed oil and gas property transactions in certain Texas counties during the third quarter of 2009. Property Transactions Completed Oil And Gas Purchase Barnett Shale Combo asset property transactions completed Costs incurred in acquisition of certain oil and gas properties in Texas. Aggregate Purchase Price For Completed Oil And Gas Purchase Barnett Shale Combo Aggregate Purchase Price Cash paid to acquire certain oil and gas properties in Texas Cash Consideration Paid For Completed Oil And Gas Purchase Barnett Shale Combo cash consideration paid Number of shares of equity interests issued or issuable to acquire oil and gas properties. Business Acquisition Of Oil And Gas Properties Equity Interest Issued Or Issuable Number Of Shares Issued Shares exchanged for Barnett Shale Combo purchase Operator ownership interest in proposed LNG Terminal and pipeline project subsequent to sell down. Operatorownershipinterestinproposedlngterminalandpipelineprojectsubsequenttoselldown Operator Ownership Interest in Proposed LNG Terminal and Pipeline Project Subsequent to Sell-Down Company's interest in proposed LNG Terminal and pipeline project subsequent to sell-down. Companysinterestinproposedlngterminalandpipelineprojectsubsequenttoselldown Company's Interest in Propesed LNG Terminal and Pipeline Subsequent to Sell-down Interest in LNG Terminal and pipeline project acquired by third-party in sell-down transactions. Interestinlngterminalandpipelineprojectacquiredbythirdpartyinselldowntransactions Interest in LNG Terminal and Pipeline Project Acquired by Third-party-in Sell-down Transactions Debt Instrument Table [Line Items] The reference rate for the variable rate of the floating rate debt, such as LIBOR or the US Treasury rate and the maturity of the reference rate used, such as three months or six months LIBOR Floating Rate Debt Description Of Variable Rate Basis Variable Rate Basis Uncommitted Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Agreement [Member] Reflects the calculation for the reporting period of the average interest rate on comemrcial paper weighted by the amount of commercial paper outstanding for varing time periods during the period. Short Term Debt Weighted Average Interest Rate Commercial Paper Weighted average interest rate (in hundredths) The effective Eurodollar interest rate at the end of the reporting period. Eurodollar Rate At Period End Eurodollar rate at period end (in hundredths) The effective base interest rate at the end of the reporting period. Base Rate At Period End Base rate at period end (in hundredths) Financial Liabilities: Crude Oil Options/Swaptions Financial Liabilities: Natural Gas Options/Swaptions Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included. Liabilities From Price Risk Management Activities [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts January - June Year Three [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts July - December [Member] Crude Oil Derivative Contracts July - December Year Two [Member] Performance Shares Performance Units and Performance Stock [Member] Debt Instrument Issuance [Abstract] Debt Instrument Issuance [Abstract] Term of Capital Lease Stated in Number of Years. Capital Lease Term (in years) Document and Entity Information [Abstract] The stated principal amount of the debt instrument, issued by one of EOG's Canadian subsidiaries, at time of issuance, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Debt Instrument, Face Amount, of Canadian Subsidiary Debt Instrument Issued by EOG's Canadian Subsidiary Capital Lease [Abstract] Capital lease optional additional term may use to extend term of lease. Capital Lease Optional Additional Term Capital Lease Optional Additional Term (in years) Employee Service Share Based Compensation Unrecognized Compensation Costs On Nonvested Performance Units and Stock Awards Employee Service Share Based Compensation Unrecognized Compensation Costs On Nonvested Performance Units and Stock Awards Employee Service Share Based Compensation Unrecognized Compensation Costs On Nonvested Performance Units and Stock Awards Weighted Average Period of Recognition Employee Service Share Based Compensation Unrecognized Compensation Costs On Nonvested Performance Units and Stock Awards Weighted Average Period Of Recognition The noncash expense that represents the cost of performance units and stocks distributed to employees as compensation. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Performance Units and Stock Compensation Cost Performance Units Granted Performance Units Granted Performance Stock Granted Performance Stock Granted Number of Performance Units and Stock Allowed to be Outstanding Minimum Performance Units and Stock Allowed to be Outstanding Maximum Number of Performance Units And Stock Allowed To Be Outstanding Maximum Performance Units And Stock Allowed To Be Outstanding Term in years of the zero-coupon risk-free interest rate derived from the Treasury Constant Maturities yield curve on the grant date of the performance units/stocks. Term of Zero-Coupon Risk-Free Interest Rate (in years) Derived from the Treasury Constant Maturities Yield Curve Performance Units and Performance Stock Performance Units and Performance Stock [Abstract]