Methane (CH₄) is the simplest member of the alkanes. At standard temperature and pressure, it is a colorless, odorless, nontoxic gas. Methane melts at -296.5°F (-182.5°C) and boils at -259.06°F (-161.7°C). It is virtually insoluble in water, but it will dissolve in organic solvents. Complete combustion of methane occurs with a blue flame (very little soot is produced) to give carbon dioxide and water.

Methane is produced when organic matter is digested bacteria in the absence of air, creating natural gas. This gas contains 50-90% methane. Most natural gas lies with coal and oil deposits buried deep underground and is a product of the decomposition of ancient swamps and bogs. Like coal and oil, methane is especially useful as a fuel for cooking, heating, and even the operation of some motor vehicles. Many factory furnaces burn methane gas, and utilities...