What is a key characteristic of CNG regarding its volume?

A key characteristic of compressed natural gas (CNG) is that it occupies significantly less than 1% of its original volume when compressed. This property is essential because it allows for the storage and transportation of large amounts of natural gas in a much more compact form than would be possible in its gaseous state at atmospheric pressure. By compressing the gas, it becomes feasible to utilize CNG as a fuel alternative for vehicles and for various industrial applications where storage space is limited.

This compression also enables efficient transport, as pipelines can move the gas to distribution points without the need for extensive storage facilities. Hence, the ability of CNG to reduce its volume dramatically through compression is a fundamental aspect that supports its use as a clean energy source. Understanding this property is crucial for anyone involved in the handling and regulation of CNG systems.