What is CH4? Important knowledge about CH4.

1. Definition of CH4

CH4, commonly known as Methane, is a hydrocarbon, belonging to the simplest group of Alkanes. Its English name is Methane. Methane is a colorless, odorless and tasteless substance, existing as a gas at standard temperature and pressure. A Methane molecule consists of one Carbon atom and four Hydrogen atoms, with an atomic mass of 16. The ion state of Methane does not exist because it is a non-polar substance.

2. Properties of CH4

2.1 Physical properties of CH4

Methane is a colorless, odorless hydrocarbon in gaseous state. It is insoluble in water and can react with strong oxidizing agents. The pH of Methane is 7, which is neutral.

2.2 Chemical properties of CH4

Methane can react with Oxygen, Chlorine, Bromine and some other substances under high temperature conditions or in the presence of a catalyst.

3. Common chemical equations of CH4

Some common chemical reactions of Methane:

• Combustion reaction: CH₄ + 2O₂ -> CO₂ + 2H₂O
• Reaction with chlorine: CH₄ + Cl₂ -> CH₃Cl + HCl
• Reaction with bromine: CH₄ + Br₂ -> CH₃Br + HBr

4. Synthesis of CH4

4.1 Laboratory synthesis of CH4

Methane can be synthesized by reducing methanol with hydrogen at high temperature:
CH₃OH + H₂ -> CH₄ + H₂O

4.2 Industrial synthesis of CH4

In industry, Methane is usually produced from natural gas by removing sulfur-containing compounds and other substances.