Methane Formula 

Methane is a chemical compound with the formula CH₄. It is the simplest hydrocarbon and serves as a fundamental building block for organic chemistry. Let’s explore the formula, structure, physical properties, and chemical properties of methane in detail.

Formula and Structure of Methane

The chemical formula of methane is CH₄. It consists of one carbon (C) atom and four hydrogen (H) atoms. The structure of methane can be represented as follows:

In the structure, the carbon atom is at the center, with four hydrogen atoms bonded to it. The four bonds between carbon and hydrogen are single covalent bonds, resulting in a tetrahedral geometry around the carbon atom.

Methane Physical Properties

• State: Methane is a colourless, odourless gas at standard temperature and pressure (STP).
• Boiling Point: Methane boils at approximately -161.5°C (-258.7°F).
• Melting Point: Methane melts at approximately -182.5°C (-296.5°F).
• Density: The density of methane gas is lower than that of air. It is about 0.717 kg/m^3 at STP.
• Solubility: Methane is sparingly soluble in water.

Methane Chemical Properties

• Combustibility: Methane is highly flammable. It burns in the presence of oxygen, producing carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) as products. The combustion reaction can be represented as:

CH₄ + 2O₂ ^–> CO₂ + 2H₂O

• Reactivity: Methane is relatively inert and unreactive under normal conditions. However, at high temperatures and in the presence of catalysts, it can undergo various reactions, such as halogenation and oxidation.
• Greenhouse Gas: Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to global warming. It has a higher global warming potential compared to carbon dioxide.
• Natural Gas: Methane is the primary component of natural gas, a fossil fuel widely used for heating, cooking, and electricity generation.
• Methane Hydrates: Methane can form hydrates under specific temperature and pressure conditions, trapping methane molecules within a lattice structure of water molecules. Methane hydrates are found in permafrost regions and deep-sea sediments.

Applications of Methane

1. Fuel Source: Methane is used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to other hydrocarbons.
2. Industrial Processes: Methane is utilized as a raw material for the production of chemicals and materials, including methanol, acetylene, and plastics.
3. Energy Storage: Methane can be stored and transported as liquefied natural gas (LNG) to facilitate its use as a fuel source in remote areas.
4. Environmental Impact: Methane emissions from various sources, such as livestock, landfills, and fossil fuel production, have significant environmental implications. Monitoring and reducing methane emissions are critical for mitigating climate change.

Solved Examples on Methane Formula

Example 1: Calculate the percent composition of carbon in methane.

Solution: To calculate the percent composition of carbon in methane, we need to determine the mass of carbon in one molecule of methane and divide it by the molar mass of methane. Then, multiply the result by 100 to obtain the percentage.

The molar mass of carbon (C) is approximately 12.01 g/mol, and the molar mass of methane (CH4) is approximately 16.04 g/mol.

The percent composition of carbon in methane is given by:

(12.01 g/mol of carbon / 16.04 g/mol of methane) * 100%

Calculating the expression:

(12.01 g/mol / 16.04 g/mol) * 100% ≈ 74.92%

Therefore, the percent composition of carbon in methane is approximately 74.92%.

Example 2: How many moles of methane are present in 5 grams of methane?

Solution: To determine the number of moles of methane, we need to use its molar mass and the given mass of methane.

The molar mass of methane (CH₄) is approximately 16.04 g/mol.

Using the formula:

moles = mass / molar mass

Substituting the given values:

moles = 5 g / 16.04 g/mol

Calculating the expression:

moles ≈ 0.311 mol

Therefore, there are approximately 0.311 moles of methane in 5 grams of methane.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the common name of calcium carbonate?

The common name of calcium carbonate is limestone.

What is the chemical composition of calcium carbonate?

Calcium carbonate is composed of calcium Ca, carbon C, and oxygen O atoms, with the chemical formula CaCO3.

What is the role of calcium carbonate in marine organisms?

Many marine organisms, such as corals, mollusks, and some algae, utilize calcium carbonate to build their shells, exoskeletons, and coral reefs.

How does calcium carbonate neutralize acid?

Calcium carbonate reacts with acids to form carbon dioxide gas, water, and a calcium salt. This process helps to neutralize acidic substances and regulate pH levels.

What are the common sources of calcium carbonate?

Calcium carbonate can be obtained from natural sources, including limestone, chalk, and marble. It is also produced synthetically for various industrial applications.