What is Natural Gas?
Natural gas is a fossil fuel that comes from underneath the earth’s surface It is a mixture of hydrocarbons and other chemicals, primarily methane. Natural gas is formed when intense heat and pressure cook organic matter (such as plants, animals, and their waste) in a process called thermal maturity. This process further transforms the organic material into various types of fossil fuel, like oil, coal, and natural gas.
Natural gas is typically extracted from the earth by drilling. Once a natural gas deposit is discovered and the drills have been set up, a well is created by boring underground. A steel pipe is then inserted into the well and it is filled with a special drilling fluid. This fluid helps to create pressure and to force the natural gas up the well and out of the ground.
The natural gas is then brought to the surface and separated from the drilling fluid. It is then processed in a pipeline to remove other gases and impurities and may then be stored in the pipeline. Natural gas is primarily used for the production of electricity, heating and cooking, but it can also be used for industrial processes and the manufacturing of products like medical supplies and plastics.
Five Examples of Natural Gas
1. Compressed Natural Gas: Compressed natural gas (CNG) is a form of natural gas in which the gas has been compressed at a pressure of 200-250 bars, making it easier to transport and store. CNG is most commonly used as an alternative fuel for cars and trucks.
2. Liquefied Natural Gas: Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is natural gas that has been cooled and compressed to a very low temperature, turning it into a liquid form. This makes it easier to transport and store. LNG is used in a variety of industries, such as the shipping industry, electric power plants, and other industrial facilities.
3. Natural Gas Liquids: Natural gas liquids (NGLs) are hydrocarbons that are extracted from natural gas and can include propane, ethane, butane, and pentanes. NGLs are primarily used as raw materials in the petrochemical industry, including the production of plastics and other industrial products.
4. Methanol: Methanol is an alcohol-like liquid that is produced from natural gas. Methanol is a widely used industrial chemical, and it is also used as a fuel for motor vehicles.
5. Synthetic Natural Gas: Synthetic natural gas (SNG) is a form of natural gas that has been produced from coal or biomass. SNG is often used as a substitute for pipeline-delivered natural gas. It can also be further processed to produce liquid fuels such as diesel and gasoline.