Understanding Natural Gas

Natural gas, primarily methane, is a fossil fuel formed from decayed plants and animals under heat and pressure. It is used to generate electricity and power homes, being a cleaner alternative to coal and oil. Natural gas is odorless, so mercaptan is added for leak detection. If a gas leak is detected by its rotten egg smell, evacuate and seek help.

What is the primary component of natural gas?

• Butane

• Methane

• Propane

• Ethane

How is natural gas formed?

• From oceanic evaporation

• Through volcanic activity

• From decayed plants and animals under heat and pressure

• By chemical reactions in the atmosphere

Which of the following is a common use of natural gas in homes?

• Running electric cars

• Powering solar panels

• Charging batteries

• Heating water

Why is natural gas considered cleaner than coal or oil?

• It is cheaper to extract

• It produces more energy

• It emits less carbon dioxide

• It is renewable

What is added to natural gas to give it a detectable smell?

• Ammonia

• Chlorine

• Mercaptan

• Sulfur

What should you do if you detect the smell of natural gas?

• Ignore it

• Open all windows

• Light a match to check for leaks

• Call for help and evacuate