## What is natural gas?
Natural gas is a fossil fuel that is found beneath the earth’s surface. It is composed of a mixture of hydrocarbons, mainly methane, but also includes small amounts of other gases such as ethane, propane, butane, and nitrogen. Natural gas is odorless, colorless, and lighter than air. It is transported through pipelines across the country.
## What is propane gas?
Propane, also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining. Unlike natural gas, propane is a liquid at room temperature and requires pressurization in order to be transported. Propane gas is stored in tanks for use in homes, businesses, and transportation.
##Source
There are major differences in sourcing when it comes to natural gas and propane. Natural gas is obtained from the underground rock formations through drilling and extraction techniques, while propane is a derived byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining. Also, natural gas is produced domestically in the United States, whereas propane is imported from other countries.
##Composition
The composition of natural gas and propane differs significantly. Natural gas is composed primarily of methane, while propane is made up of propane molecules. Propane consists of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms, while natural gas is a mixture of methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and other hydrocarbons. The propane from natural gas processing can be purified to produce propane that’s close to 100% pure.
## Heating Value
The heating value of natural gas and propane is another important difference between the two gases. The heating value of natural gas is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) per cubic foot, while propane’s heating value is measured in BTUs per gallon. The heating value of propane is about 91,000 BTUs per gallon, while the heating value of natural gas ranges from 900 to 1100 BTUs per cubic foot.
##Cost
The cost of natural gas and propane varies based on market conditions. Natural gas is generally less expensive than propane, as it is domestically produced in the United States. Propane, on the other hand, is imported from other countries, which makes it more expensive. However, the cost of propane can differ depending on if it is purchased in bulk or in small tanks for personal use.
##Benefits of Natural Gas
Natural gas is considered to be a cleaner fuel than propane because it produces fewer emissions like carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. In addition, natural gas is distributed through pipelines, which is considered more efficient than hauling propane gas around in trucks. Natural gas is also readily available, with many homes and businesses already connected to pipelines, making it a convenient option for those who already have access.
##Benefits of Propane
Propane gas is a more versatile fuel because it is not limited by pipelines. It can be stored in tanks and transported easily, making it ideal for those who live in remote areas. Propane also has a higher BTU value than natural gas, which means it can heat up a space more quickly. Propane is also used as an alternative fuel for vehicles, particularly in rural areas.
##Conclusion
Natural gas and propane gas are two types of fuel that are commonly used for heating, cooking, and fueling vehicles. They differ in sourcing, composition, heating value, cost, and benefits. Natural gas is domestically produced, cleaner, and more convenient if there is already a pipeline infrastructure in place. Propane is imported but more versatile, useful in areas without a pipeline infrastructure, and has a higher BTU value, making it effective for heating. Deciding which fuel to use will depend on your location, needs, and budget.
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What Is The Difference Between Natural Gas And Propane Gas
