What is a definition of natural gas and what is its most significant use?
Definition: A mixture of hydrocarbon gases that occurs with petroleum deposits, principally methane together with varying quantities of ethane, propane, butane, and other gases, and is used as a fuel and in the manufacture of organic compounds. Raw natural gas may also contain water vapor, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and helium. Processed natural gas contains mostly methane and ethane, although there is no such thing as a “typical” natural gas. Certain other components may be added to the processed gas to give it special qualities. For example, a chemical known as mercaptan is added to give the gas a distinctive odor that warns people of a leak. Natural gas is formed underground by the decomposition of organic materials in plants and animals. It is usually found in areas where oil is present, although there are several large underground reservoirs of natural gas where there is little or no oil. Natural gas is widely used for heating and cooking, as well as for a variety
