Methane

Chemical formula for methane

Methane is a colorless highly flammable gas that is less dense than air. The methane molecule consists of four hydrogen atoms covalently one carbon atom.

The chemical formula for methane is CH₄ which is the simplest hydrocarbon of the alkane series. The molar mass of methane is 16.043 g/mol

Methane is a major component of natural gas and is also produced from by anaerobic bacteria in septic tanks and in the digestive systems of animals.

Methane readily undergoes combustion producing carbon dioxide and water.

Methane + oxygen ==> carbon dioxide + water + energy

CH₄ + 2O₂ ==> CO₂ + 2H₂O + energy