Natural Gas
Natural gas is considered a vital fossil fuel due to its ease of transport and usage. Stored under high pressure in the form of compressed natural gas (CNG), it is increasingly adopted for power generation and as a fuel for transport vehicles due to its cleaner-burning properties compared to other fossil fuels.
Formation and Reserves
Natural gas forms from the decomposed remains of ancient marine organisms that fell to the seabed and were covered with layers of sand and clay. Through millions of years of heat and pressure, these organic materials became hydrocarbons. In India, notable natural gas reserves are located in Tripura, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and the Krishna Godavari delta.
Applications
CNG is utilized for generating electricity and is also a fuel option for vehicles, helping reduce air pollution. It can be directly supplied to homes and factories via pipelines, enhancing convenience in its use. Various chemicals and fertilizers are also produced using natural gas, underpinning its importance in multiple sectors.
Summary
In summary, natural gas stands out as an accessible, clean energy source that supports a diverse range of applications, emphasizing the importance of judiciously utilizing this exhaustible resource while considering environmental impacts.