Methane is the simplest hydro carbon,
CH4.
It is an odourless gas, probably the most
abundant organic compound on earth.
When it is sold commercially it is usually
mixed with small amounts of foul-smelling sulphur compounds for
easier detection of leaks.
Methane is also known as swamp gas, since it
is formed during decomposition of organic matter in oxygen-deficient
environments, such as the bottom of a swamp.
Another name is mine gas for its propensity
to seep out in mines, where it can ignite, and be a serious threat
to miners - gas explosions regularly cost many human lives.
Methane is a greenhouse gas and emissions,
primarily from agriculture is considered a contributing factor to
the enhanced greenhouse effect.
The relative abundance of methane makes it an
attractive fuel.
However, since it is a gas at normal
conditions, methane is difficult to transport from its source.
