Previous Year Question
Which among the following compounds is the main constituent of natural gas?
Methane
Hexane
Benzene
Butane
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Natural Gas is not a single compound; it is a mixture composed mainly of light gaseous hydrocarbons. Among them, Methane (CH₄) is generally present in the largest proportion.
Along with Methane, Natural Gas may contain smaller quantities of Ethane, Propane and Butane, as well as Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen and other gases depending on its source and processing.
According to GAIL, even the liquefied processed form of natural gas, LNG, consists predominantly of Methane, generally around 95–99% by volume. This reflects the dominance of Methane in natural-gas streams.
Hexane is a comparatively heavier hydrocarbon and is not the principal gaseous constituent of Natural Gas.
Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon and is not the main component of Natural Gas.
Butane may occur in Natural Gas in smaller quantities and is more closely associated with LPG/Natural Gas Liquids, but it is not the principal constituent.
Natural Gas → Mainly Methane
CNG → Mainly Methane
LPG → Mainly Propane + Butane