What is natural gas?
Natural gas is a gaseous mixture of hydrocarbon compounds found within the earth's crust in association with fossil fuels, in coal beds, and created by methanogenic organisms in landfills, bogs, and marshes. It is composed primarily of methane (1 carbon atom + 4 hydrogen atoms), but does contain small amounts of other gases such as pentane, propane, ethane, and butane. When used as a fuel, these secondary gases must be removed, leaving almost pure methane.
A brief history
Humans have had a long relationship with natural gas. It was first identified where lightning ignited gas seepages, creating ever-burning flames. These were seen as having great mystical importance and often inspired the construction of temples and other religious structures at their locations. The most famous of these is at the Greek sanctuary at Delphi, where the Oracle delivered prophesies to those who sought her advice. The Chinese were the first to employ natural gas for use as an energy source. As early as the 1st century BC, they were undergoing systematic exploration for natural gas, piping it to the surface from as deep as 2000ft, and then using it for cooking, heating, lightning, and industrial uses.
It wasn't until the industrial and scientific advances of the 19th and 20th centuries that the understanding and technology for efficient exploration, extraction, refinement, and distribution of natural gas has allowed it to become a universally available commodity.
What is it used for?
Natural gas is used a an energy source, touching almost every part of our lives. One of its primary uses is as an efficient and clean fuel for the the production of electricity. In the industrial sector, it is used in the manufacturing of goods, processing foods, and mining. Commercial and residential sectors use it for heating, cooling, and cooking. Its use as a transportation fuel has been increasing as people become more aware of its environmental and economic benefits.
Where does natural gas come from?
North America has an enormous supply of native natural gas beneath the earth’s crust. It is present in the earth and can be drilled for, refined, and distributed throughout the continent through a vast pipeline network. It is formed when organic materials are compressed and heated over thousands of years. These natural gas deposits tend to be located near oil 1-2 miles beneath the surface of the earth.
New technologies have also developed methods of recovering the natural gas (methane) from renewable sources. In this process, organic matter is broken down by tiny microorganisms, producing a type of natural gas called biogenic methane. Many animals and organisms produce this type of gas, but controlled retrieval can be difficult, so much of it is lost to the atmosphere. A more reliable source of biogenic methane harvesting can be done through landfills, where the gas can be retrieved and routed into the supply networks to run our cars, ovens, and power plants.
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