Definition

A colorless and odorless gas that is highly flammable and is the main component of natural gas. It is produced from the breakdown of organic materials and is used as a fuel and in chemical processes.

Example

Methane is often used as a clean energy source for heating and cooking.

Conversation

Have you heard about how methane is affecting climate change?

Yeah, it’s pretty alarming how much is being released into the atmosphere.

I read that it’s actually more powerful than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas.

Exactly! We really need to find ways to reduce methane emissions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Methane is derived from the prefix "meth-" (from the Greek "methy", meaning wine or alcohol) and the suffix "-ane" (indicating a saturated hydrocarbon). The word refers to a specific type of hydrocarbon that is the simplest alkane, often associated with organic compounds like alcohols.

Memory Tip

Think of 'meth-' relating to 'wine' or 'alcohol', and remember that 'methane' is a simple hydrocarbon, much like how wine is a simple organic compound.

Visually Confused Words