Everything Everywhere Daily Natural Gas Explained: Past, Present, and Future
Feb 9, 2025
Discover the fascinating journey of natural gas from ancient civilizations to its vital role in modern energy economies. Learn about its composition and the safety measures that make it a reliable energy source. Explore the significant advancements in liquid natural gas and how it transformed transportation and global demand. The shift from coal to natural gas showcases its benefits, including efficiency and reduced emissions, highlighting the crucial impact of hydraulic fracturing on prices and reserves.
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Natural Gas Composition and Properties
- Natural gas, primarily methane, is processed to remove impurities and increase methane content for cleaner burning.
- The odorless gas has mercaptan added for leak detection, and its combustion produces carbon dioxide, water, and heat.
Early Encounters with Natural Gas
- Ancient civilizations encountered natural gas seeps, sometimes igniting into eternal flames.
- These flames held religious significance or practical uses, such as salt extraction in ancient China.
The Discovery and Use of Coal Gas
- In 1733, Stephen Hales discovered coal gas, a combustible gas released by heating coal.
- William Murdoch pioneered coal gas lighting, leading to the first commercial gas company in 1812.