What is the main component of compressed natural gas?

The main component of compressed natural gas (CNG) is methane. Methane is a simple hydrocarbon with the chemical formula CH4, and it constitutes a significant majority of natural gas. It is favored as the primary component in CNG due to its high energy content and relatively low carbon footprint compared to other fossil fuels. When used as fuel, CNG produces fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases than gasoline or diesel, making it a cleaner-burning alternative in the transportation sector.

Other options such as propane, hydrogen, and butane have distinct properties and applications but are not the primary constituents of compressed natural gas. Propane is a different type of hydrocarbon often used for heating and cooking but is not the main component in CNG. Hydrogen, although a clean fuel when combusted, is not a component of natural gas itself. Butane, similar to propane, is a different hydrocarbon that serves various purposes but does not make up the primary makeup of CNG. Thus, methane’s role as the dominant component underlines its importance in the function and environmental benefits of compressed natural gas as a fuel source.