What is the proper chemical name for natural gas?

Natural gas is primarily composed of methane, which is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula CH₄. It consists of one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms, making it the simplest and most abundant alkane in natural gas. Methane is not only utilized as a fuel source for heating and electricity generation, but it also serves as a feedstock in the production of various chemicals and fertilizers.

The other options, while related to hydrocarbons, represent different molecules with varying numbers of carbon atoms. Propane, with three carbon atoms, is commonly used in grilling and as a residential heating fuel but is distinct from methane. Butane, with four carbon atoms, is used in lighters and as a portable fuel source. Ethane, containing two carbon atoms, is a byproduct of natural gas processing and is often used in the production of ethylene, a building block in plastics. Thus, understanding that methane is the primary constituent of natural gas highlights why it is recognized as the correct term for this important energy source.