Methane

/ˈmiːθeɪn/ · noun

Meaning

(organic chemistry, uncountable) The simplest aliphatic hydrocarbon, CH₄, being a constituent of natural gas, and one of the most abundant greenhouse gases..

Definitions by Sense

1. (organic chemistry, uncountable) The simplest aliphatic hydrocarbon, CH₄, being a constituent of natural gas, and one of the most abundant greenhouse gases.
2. (organic chemistry, countable) Any of very many derivatives of methane.

Example Sentences

Cattle emit a large amount of methane.

Methane, an invisible, odorless gas that makes up more than 95% of natural gas fuel, can be as much as 80 times more potent as a global warmer per given unit than CO₂, which is more plentiful in the atmosphere. While there are less emissions than CO₂, methane lasts around 12 years, while CO₂ lingers for centuries.

Synonyms for methane

Antonyms for methane

Related Words

Word Forms

• methanes

Usage Notes

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