Methane

Methane is a chemical compound with the molecular formula CH4. It is a colorless, odorless gas and is the simplest alkane and the main component of natural gas. Here are some key points to understand about methane:

Properties of Methane:

Methane is a non-polar molecule, which means it does not have a positive or negative end, and it is not soluble in water.
It is lighter than air and has a specific gravity of 0.554, which means it will float in the atmosphere.
Methane is flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air when it reaches a concentration of 5-15% in the air.

Sources of Methane:

Methane is produced through both natural and human activities. Some of the main sources include:

Natural sources such as wetlands, termites, oceans, and volcanoes.
Human activities including the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as livestock farming and waste management.

Uses of Methane:

Methane has various applications, including:

As a fuel for heating and cooking.
As a feedstock in the production of chemicals such as ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen.
As a source of energy in power generation.

Environmental Impact:

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and its release into the atmosphere contributes to global warming and climate change. It has a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, although it has a shorter atmospheric lifetime.