Introduction – The Discovery – Locations where Methane is Found – Basic Science – How Methane Affects History – How History Affects Methane
METHANE AND THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT
Methane (CH4) is a principal component of natural gas. It is also formed and released to the atmosphere by biological processes occurring in anaerobic environments. Once in the atmosphere, methane absorbs terrestrial infrared radiation that would otherwise escape to space. This property can contribute to the warming of the atmosphere, which is why methane is a greenhouse gas.