As a subject matter expert in the field of energy resources, I have a deep understanding of the composition and characteristics of various fuels, including natural gas. Natural gas is a fossil fuel that is widely used for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It is a versatile and efficient energy source that has been a cornerstone of the energy industry for many years.

Methane, CH4, is the primary component of natural gas and is a hydrocarbon with one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms. It is a colorless, odorless, and highly flammable gas that is the simplest alkane and the main constituent of natural gas. The percentage of methane in natural gas can vary depending on the source and the specific geological formation from which it is extracted.

According to the information provided from a reputable source such as Wikipedia, methane constitutes about 87% by volume of natural gas. However, it is important to note that this percentage can fluctuate. Other sources often report a range of approximately 70% to 90% for the methane content in natural gas. This variance can be attributed to differences in the composition of natural gas deposits around the world.

The remaining components of natural gas are typically hydrocarbon gases that are heavier than methane. These include ethane (C2H6), propane (C3H8), and butane (C4H10). These gases are also known as natural gas liquids (NGLs) and are valuable by-products of natural gas processing. They have a variety of uses, including as petrochemical feedstocks and as fuels themselves.

When natural gas is processed and purified for residential and commercial use, it is often treated to remove impurities and other hydrocarbons, resulting in a product that is almost pure methane. This processed gas is then transported through pipelines to homes and businesses, where it is used for a variety of applications.

It is also worth mentioning that the purity of methane in natural gas is not only important for its energy content but also for environmental considerations. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and its leakage during extraction, transportation, and use can contribute to climate change. Therefore, the management of methane emissions is a critical aspect of natural gas operations.

In summary, while the exact percentage of methane in natural gas can vary, it is generally accepted to be in the range of approximately 70% to 90%, with the majority of sources indicating a figure closer to 87%. The purity of methane in the gas that reaches consumers is typically very high, making it an efficient and clean-burning fuel.

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Wikipedia notes --Methane is the major component of natural gas, about 87% by volume-- though other sources typically give a range of around 70% to 90%. Most of the rest of nat gas is ethane, propane and/0r butane. The stuff that gets to your home --is almost pure methane.--Apr 13, 2011read more >>