Which of the following is a characteristic of a stable wellbore?

A stable wellbore is characterized by minimal seepage of fluids and dependable pressure control. This means that the wellbore is maintained in such a way that there is a consistent and controlled environment, allowing for safe and efficient drilling operations. Minimal seepage indicates that the wellbore is properly sealed, preventing unwanted fluid from entering or exiting the formation, which could lead to instability or pressure variations.

Dependable pressure control is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the wellbore. It ensures that the pressure exerted by the fluids within the well is balanced against the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the surrounding rock formations. This balance helps prevent issues such as blowouts or wellbore collapse, further reinforcing the stability of the wellbore.

In contrast, characteristics such as frequent seepage and regular wellbore collapses indicate instability and high risk, while utilizing high fluid density can be a method to mitigate instability but does not, in isolation, define a stable wellbore. The presence of minimal seepage combined with effective pressure management clearly defines the conditions of a stable wellbore.