An analysis of seven elements such as Cu, Fe, Ni, etc., and their phases in drilling core sediments from Site 1146 of ODP Leg 184 enabled the authors to determine the distribution and vertical changes in the total content and phases of various elements. The study shows that the distribution of total content and phases of various elements in the section were controlled by many factors such as biological action, complexation and adsorption of organic matter, coprecipitation, etc., and that sediment mainly came from the mainland. While the distribution of organic phases and the total content of Cu, Co, and Ni show that a large amount of organic matter existed in deep strata, in combination with organic gas in the core sediment and correlated geological conditions, it is concluded that favorable conditions for oil and gas exist in the area. Cluster analysis of various element phases and light hydrocarbons and organic indexes show that the exchangeable phase of Cu, Fe and Ni could indicate oil and gas indirectly, although their proportions are low in various phases.