Can methane cause air pollution?

Answer 1

Methane is a potent "greenhouse gas," more than 20 times more effective at trapping heat, than carbon dioxide (CO2). However, methane molecules tend to only last in the atmosphere for 3-5 years, compared to CO2 which is very stable and can last hundreds or thousands of years. Because of this, the overall concentration of methane in the atmosphere tends to be far lower than that of CO2.

Methane in the atmosphere tends to slowly react with oxygen over time, forming methanol, formaldehyde, or formic acid. These chemicals contribute to the formation of smog and upper atmosphere "aerosols." These methane breakdown products may then be further oxidized into CO2 and water; but since they are water soluble, they tend to be removed from the atmosphere by clouds, rain, and snow.

Most methane is produced by decomposing organic matter. Special bacteria called "methanogens" produce their energy by reacting decaying materials with water, producing methane and CO2. These organisms can only live in regions that are totally devoid of oxygen, e.g. the bottoms of marshes, swamps, lakes, oceans, rice paddies, landfills, deep in the soil, and also in the intestines of large animals. (Flatulence is mostly methane and CO2) Methane and other hydrocarbons are also byproducts of incomplete combustion, in fires, cars, homes, and power plants.

~W.O.M.B.A.T.

Answer 2

Methane IS air pollution. It is 20-60 times more potent at trapping heat than carbon dioxide and is a major contributor to global warming. Unless you ask a conservative or a republican, then global warming is a mystical illusion.....

Answer 3

Yes because its a substance not ususally in the air. Too much being released causes balance to shift. Gas takes up space too! If methane coverts to gas form, it can polute the air.

Answer 4

Yes methane can do the same as CO2
just look at Venus for christ sake

Answer 5

lol i hope not