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Natural gas

Natural Gas

Natural gas is a naturally occurring hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting primarily of methane (CH4), but commonly includes varying amounts of other higher alkanes, and sometimes a small percentage of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen sulfide, or helium. It is formed when layers of decomposing plant and animal matter are exposed to intense heat and pressure under the surface of the Earth over millions of years. This fossil fuel is used as a source of energy for heating, cooking, and electricity generation, and is also used as a fuel for vehicles and as a chemical feedstock in the manufacture of plastics and other commercially important organic chemicals.

Natural gas is a critical component of the world’s energy supply and is regarded as a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels such as coal and oil for electricity generation, because it produces fewer emissions of most types of pollutants and greenhouse gases. It is generally transported via pipelines in its gaseous state or by ships in a liquified form known as liquefied natural gas (LNG). The versatility and relatively low levels of pollutants contribute to its increased demand in the context of a global energy transition focused on reducing carbon emissions.

For more information about natural gas, you can visit the following websites:

1. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Provides extensive information on natural gas, including data, analyses, and educational resources covering its production, consumption, distribution, and market trends.
Website URL: https://www.eia.gov/naturalgas/

2. International Gas Union (IGU) – Offers extensive resources and reports on the natural gas industry, providing insights on the latest developments, issues, and technological advancements around the world.
Website URL: https://www.igu.org/

This A.I.-generated glossary is intended to provide a convenient means to understand terminology used on this website in the context of physical commodities trading. Some terms may have alternative and/or expanded definitions that may not be relevant here and thus not included. Sources provided are for reference and not intended to be an endorsement of the broader content on that website. Suggestions, questions, or corrections can be provided in the comment box on definition pages.