Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012 Counterparty
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of counterparties	15
Net gain included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax applied to next twelve months	$ 12
Net gain included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, after tax	$ 7

Net gain included in accumulated other comprehensive income loss before tax.

No definition available.

Name:	apa_NetGainIncludedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeTax
Namespace Prefix:	apa_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant