What is Methane?
Methane, CH4, is a chemical compound composed of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms. It is one of the most common gases in the universe, as well as on Earth. While it is valued for its energy-production capabilities, methane also has the ability to potentially wreak havoc on the Earth’s fragile ecosystems. Therefore, the gas has properties that are both good and bad. Methane is a type of alkane, which are compounds composed only of carbon and hydrogen atoms in various numbers. In fact, its the simplest form of alkane. Despite the smells that some may be tempted to associate with methane, it is odorless and colorless. Its simplicity may be partly responsible for its proliferation in many different places and settings. Even many lifeforms produce some amount of methane. Wetlands and oceans are where most of the Earth’s natural methane is produced. Thus, the gas is sometimes called swamp gas. Approximately 40 percent of the world’s methane is produced through these areas. However, ha
Methane is a chemical compound with the molecular formula CH4. It is the simplest alkane, and the principal component of natural gas. Burning one molecule of methane in the presence of oxygen releases one molecule of CO2 (carbon dioxide) and two molecules of H2O. Methane’s relative abundance and clean burning process makes it a very attractive fuel. However, because it is a gas (at normal temperature and pressure) and not a liquid or solid, methane is difficult to transport from the areas that produce it to the areas that consume it. Converting methane to derivatives that are more easily transported, such as methanol, is an active area of research. Certain microorganisms can effect this selective oxidation using enzymes called methane monooxygenases.
