Abstract: Based on the study of hydrocarbon-source rock of Late Paleozoic coal measures in Bohai Bay Basin,the hydrocarbon-generating properties are evaluated from the main hydrocarbon-generating component,the types of organic matter and hydrocarbon-generating threshold,respectively.It is considered that the hydrocarbon generating properties of source rock in Taiyuan Formation is better than those in Shanxi Formation;the source rock has the better material basis for hydrocarbon generation,higher hydrocarbon generating capacity and thermal mature condition,as well as the better prospect for the natural gas exploration.