What is the main difference between propane and natural gas in terms of composition?

Prepare for the Maine Gas Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations, to ace your test!

The main difference highlighted in the correct answer focuses on the chemical composition of propane and natural gas. Propane, a type of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is composed primarily of hydrocarbon molecules known as C3H8, which consists of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. On the other hand, natural gas is primarily composed of methane, which is a lighter hydrocarbon represented by the chemical formula CH4, consisting of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms.

Understanding this distinction is crucial because the differences in structure between these two gases result in varied physical properties, uses, and processing methods. For example, the molecular weight of propane is greater than that of methane, causing propane to be denser than natural gas. This distinction is important for applications in heating, cooking, and fuel, as they behave differently under pressure and temperature changes.

The other options do not accurately represent the fundamental differences in composition between propane and natural gas. For instance, stating that propane is primarily carbon dioxide misrepresents propane's chemical identity, while characterizing propane as solid or suggesting its flammability compared to natural gas does not address the differences in their molecular compositions.

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