Natural gas

Definition

Natural gas is a fossil fuel composed mainly of methane, a hydrocarbon that is formed from the remains of ancient marine organisms buried under layers of sediment. It is a significant energy source, widely used for heating, electricity generation, and as a feedstock in various chemical processes. Its management plays a crucial role in balancing energy needs while addressing environmental concerns related to fossil fuel use.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natural gas is considered a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal and oil, producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions when combusted.
2. It can be transported via pipelines or as liquefied natural gas (LNG), allowing for global trade and distribution.
3. Natural gas is often used in power plants for electricity generation, providing a reliable energy source that can quickly respond to changes in demand.
4. The extraction of natural gas through methods like fracking has raised environmental concerns, including groundwater contamination and increased seismic activity.
5. As countries seek to reduce carbon emissions, natural gas is often viewed as a transitional fuel that can support the shift towards renewable energy sources.

Review Questions

• How does natural gas compare to other fossil fuels in terms of environmental impact?
  • Natural gas is considered a cleaner alternative to coal and oil because it produces significantly fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants when burned. For instance, it emits about 50% less carbon dioxide than coal and 30% less than oil. This lower emissions profile makes natural gas an attractive option for energy production as nations aim to reduce their overall carbon footprints and combat climate change.
• Discuss the implications of fracking on natural gas extraction and environmental health.
  • Fracking has revolutionized natural gas extraction by enabling access to previously unreachable deposits. However, this method has sparked debate due to its potential environmental risks. Concerns include groundwater contamination from chemicals used in the fracking process and increased seismic activity due to changes in underground pressure. These issues highlight the need for regulations and careful management practices to mitigate the environmental impact associated with fracking.
• Evaluate the role of natural gas in the transition towards renewable energy sources and its impact on global energy strategies.
  • Natural gas is often viewed as a crucial transitional fuel in the shift towards renewable energy due to its ability to provide reliable power while emitting lower levels of carbon dioxide. As countries commit to reducing greenhouse gases, natural gas can help bridge the gap by supporting intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar with backup power. However, its continued use also raises concerns about long-term dependency on fossil fuels, necessitating careful evaluation of energy policies that promote sustainable practices while meeting immediate energy needs.

Related terms

fossil fuels:

Natural substances formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals over millions of years, including coal, oil, and natural gas.

hydrocarbon: Organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon, which are the primary components of fossil fuels.

fracking: A method of extracting natural gas from underground rock formations by injecting high-pressure fluid to fracture the rock and release the gas.