Methane (US: / ˈ m ɛ θ eɪ n / METH-ayn, UK: / ˈ m iː θ eɪ n / MEE-thayn) is a chemical compound with the chemical formula CH 4 (one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms). It is a group-14 hydride, the simplest alkane, and the main constituent of natural gas.

Jan 31, 2025 · Methane, colorless, odorless gas that occurs abundantly in nature and as a product of certain human activities. Methane is the simplest member of the paraffin series of hydrocarbons and is among the most potent of the greenhouse gases.

Methane Basics. Methane (CH 4) is a powerful greenhouse gas, and is the second-largest contributor to climate warming after carbon dioxide (CO 2). A molecule of methane traps more heat than a molecule of CO 2, but methane has a relatively short lifespan of 7 to 12 years in the atmosphere, while CO 2 can persist for hundreds of years or more.

Jan 16, 2025 · Methane emissions in the United States decreased by 19% between 1990 and 2022. During this time period, emissions increased from sources associated with agricultural activities, while emissions decreased from other sources including landfills, coal mining and from natural gas and petroleum systems.

Methane is the major component of natural gas, which is found in geological deposits known as natural gas fields and used as vehicle fuel in its compressed form. Methane may be burned to produce electricity and is often piped into homes for domestic heating and cooking purposes.

Mar 3, 2025 · Methane (CH 4) is a hydrocarbon that is a primary component of natural gas. Methane is also a greenhouse gas (GHG), so its presence in the atmosphere affects the earth’s temperature and climate system. Methane is emitted from a variety of anthropogenic (human-influenced) and natural sources.

Jan 23, 2019 · Methane's impact on climate, past and future. Methane may also have been the cause of rapid warming events deep in Earth’s history, millions of years ago.

How is methane used? Methane is the main component of natural gas and is widely used in homes, businesses and factories all over the world. In homes, methane may be used to fuel a water heater, furnace, stove, clothes dryer, etc. In the industrial sector, methane is used as a fuel for gas boilers and turbines. oeeee

What is Methane? Methane is the simplest of saturated hydrocarbons with a chemical formula CH 4. It consists of four hydrogen atoms and one carbon atom and is the simplest alkane. When natural methane reaches the surface of the atmosphere is called atmospheric methane and can be found under the seafloor as well as below the ground.

Sep 25, 2020 · Methane is the main component in natural gas, which is used to generate electricity and heat homes around the world. Here's why it's a big deal.