♻️ap environmental science review

Methane

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) that is released into the atmosphere through natural processes and human activities. It has a much higher warming potential than carbon dioxide, although its atmospheric concentration is lower.