Organic Chemistry - Fuels

Objective: Name methane as the main constituent of natural gas

Introduction

Fuels are substances that release energy when they undergo chemical reactions, typically combustion. Organic fuels are those containing carbon. Natural gas is a significant fuel source, and understanding its composition is crucial.

What is Natural Gas?

Natural gas is a naturally occurring mixture of gases. It is primarily used for heating, cooking, and generating electricity.

Composition of Natural Gas

The main component of natural gas is methane.

Methane: Chemical Properties and Formula

Methane is a simple organic compound with the chemical formula CH4. It is a colorless, odorless, and flammable gas.

Why Methane is the Main Constituent

Methane is the most abundant component of natural gas, typically making up 70-90% of its volume. The remaining components can include other hydrocarbons like ethane, propane, and butane, as well as small amounts of carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

Table Summary

Component	Chemical Formula	Percentage in Natural Gas (approximate)
Methane	CH4	70-90%
Ethane	C2H6	0-10%
Propane	C3H8	0-10%
Butane	C4H10	0-10%
Carbon Dioxide	CO2	0-5%
Nitrogen	N2	0-10%

Key Takeaway

Remember that methane (CH4) is the primary component of natural gas.