Overview

Methane (METH-ane) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, flammable gas that is less dense then air. It is the primary component of natural gas. Methane is the simplest of all hydrocarbons, organic compounds that contain carbon and hydrogen and no other elements.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Marsh gas; methyl hydride

Formula:

CH₄

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen

Compound Type:

Hydrocarbon; alkane (organic)

State:

Gas

Molecular Weight:

16.04 g/mol

Melting Point:

−182.47°C (−296.45°F)

Boiling Point:

−161.48°C (−322.63°F)

Solubility:

Very slightly soluble in water and acetone; soluble in ethyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, and ether

How It Is Made

Methane formed millions of years ago from microscopic underwater plants and bacteria that dropped to the bottom of the ocean when they died. Over millions of years, they were crushed and heated by the pressure of layers of sand, dirt, and other materials that accumulated on top of them. The mineral components of the...