Natural Gas

Methane is the primary component of natural gas, a fossil fuel that is found in underground reservoirs. Natural gas often contains varying amounts of other hydrocarbons, but methane is typically the major component.

Greenhouse Gas

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, meaning it has the ability to trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere. While it is less abundant than carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane is more effective at trapping heat over shorter time frames. Methane emissions contribute to climate change and global warming.

Biological Production

Methane is produced in various biological processes, including during the digestion of organic matter by certain microbes in environments such as wetlands, landfills, and the digestive systems of animals (enteric fermentation).

Fuel

Methane is used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It is often preferred for its relatively clean combustion, producing fewer pollutants compared to other fossil fuels.

Methane Hydrates

Methane can form hydrates, which are ice-like structures that contain methane molecules trapped within a lattice of water molecules. Methane hydrates are found in some deep-sea sediments and in permafrost regions.

Renewable Natural Gas

Methane can be produced from organic waste through processes such as anaerobic digestion or by upgrading biogas from landfills. This renewable natural gas (RNG) can be injected into existing natural gas infrastructure.

Industrial Processes

Methane is used in various industrial processes, such as the production of hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol. It is also a feedstock for the synthesis of other chemicals.

Transportation Fuel

Compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) are forms of methane that can be used as alternative fuels in vehicles, reducing emissions compared to traditional gasoline or diesel.

While methane is an important energy resource, its role as a greenhouse gas and contributor to climate change has led to increased efforts to manage and reduce methane emissions. Techniques such as capturing and utilizing methane emissions from waste sources are being explored to mitigate its impact on the environment.