Natural gas

Natural gas (commonly refered to as gas in many countries, but note that this is also American and Canadian slang for gasoline) is a gaseous fossil fuel consisting primarily of methane. It is found in oil fields and natural gas fields, as well as—in smaller quantities—in coal beds.

Chemical composition and energy content

Chemical composition

The primary component of natural gas is methane (CH4), the shortest and lightest hydrocarbon molecule. It may also contain heavier gaseous hydrocarbons such as ethane (C2H6), propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10), as well as other sulphur containing gases, in varying amounts, see also natural gas condensate.

Related Topics:
Methane - C - H - Hydrocarbon - Ethane - Propane - Butane - Sulphur - Natural gas condensate

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Organosulfur compounds and Hydrogen sulfide (H2S see acid gas) are common contaminants, which must be removed prior to most uses. Gas with a significant amount of sulfur impurities is termed "sour".

Related Topics:
Organosulfur compounds - Hydrogen sulfide - H - S - Acid gas

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Energy content

Combustion of one cubic metre of commercial quality natural gas yields 38 MJ (10.6 kWh).

Related Topics:
Combustion - Cubic metre

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