GCSE Chemistry · key term

Methane

Definition

The simplest hydrocarbon, with the formula $CH_4$ ; it is the main component of natural gas.

Used by Edexcel

Specification 8.15 · Paper 2

Petrol, kerosene, diesel oil and methane are fossil fuels. Their chemical energy came ultimately from ancient living material, which was transformed over geological time. They are valuable because reactions involving these fuels can release energy.
Revise: Non-renewable Fuels

1
Keep the origins separate: petrol, kerosene and diesel oil are obtained from crude oil, whereas methane is found in natural gas.
2
Remember that petrol, kerosene and diesel oil are mixtures obtained as crude-oil fractions, while methane is a single compound.

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GCSE Chemistry · key term

The simplest hydrocarbon, with the formula $CH_4$ ; it is the main component of natural gas.

Used by Edexcel

Specification 8.15 · Paper 2

Petrol, kerosene, diesel oil and methane are fossil fuels. Their chemical energy came ultimately from ancient living material, which was transformed over geological time. They are valuable because reactions involving these fuels can release energy.
Revise: Non-renewable Fuels

1
Keep the origins separate: petrol, kerosene and diesel oil are obtained from crude oil, whereas methane is found in natural gas.
2
Remember that petrol, kerosene and diesel oil are mixtures obtained as crude-oil fractions, while methane is a single compound.

Create a free account to read GCSE Chemistry revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.