Methane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🔥
methane
[ˈmɛθeɪn ]
Definition
chemical compound
Methane is a colorless, odorless gas that is the simplest hydrocarbon, consisting of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms. It is a major component of natural gas and is used as a fuel and in the production of organic chemicals.
Synonyms
CH4, natural gas.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| methane |
This duplicate seems to be a formatting error. If intended for another context, it could specify similar usages as the earlier 'methane'. |
| natural gas |
This term is often used in industrial and commercial contexts to refer to a fuel source that is primarily composed of methane but may contain other hydrocarbons and gases. It is commonly used in households and industries for heating and energy.
|
| CH4 |
This is the chemical formula for methane and is often used in scientific literature, equations, and discussions that require precise notation.
|
Examples of usage
- Methane is released during the decomposition of organic matter.
- Many households use methane as a clean and efficient source of energy.
- The combustion of methane produces carbon dioxide and water.
- Natural gas vehicles often run on methane.
- Biogas plants produce methane from organic waste.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In nature, methane is produced when organic matter decomposes in the absence of oxygen, a process often occurring in wetlands.
- Methane is a greenhouse gas that is more effective than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere, making it a significant player in climate change discussions.
Industry
- It is a primary component of natural gas, with over 90% of natural gas being methane, widely used for energy in homes and industries.
- Methane can be captured and used as a renewable energy source through technologies like anaerobic digestion, turning waste into energy.
Pop Culture
- Methane has been referenced in various documentaries and shows discussing environmental issues and the impact of livestock on climate change.
- Popular science fiction often mentions 'methane' as a key resource for potential human colonies on planets like Mars.
Psychology
- Studies on knowledge perception show that many people think of methane as a hazardous material due to its flammability and association with pollution.
- Educational efforts aim to change misconceptions about methane, highlighting its benefits if managed correctly.
Origin of 'methane'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek word 'methy', which means 'wine', reflecting its early discovery when associated with the fermentation process.
- The '-ane' suffix signifies that it is a type of alkane, a category of hydrocarbons where carbon atoms form chains with hydrogen.
The word 'methane' comes from the Greek word 'methy' which means 'wine' and the suffix 'ane' which denotes a hydrocarbon. Methane was first isolated in 1776 by Alessandro Volta, although its chemical structure was not fully understood until the 19th century. It is the main component of natural gas and plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle and global warming.