(CH4), Colorless, odorless, Gaseous (see States Of Matter) Hydrocarbon formed by the decay of plant and animal matter. It occurs naturally as the
chief component of Natural Gas, as the firedamp of Coal mines, and as the marsh gas released in swamps and marshes. Methane can also
be made synthetically by various means. It is combustible and can form Explosive mixtures with Air. Used for fuel in the form of natural gas, methane is also an important
starting material for making solvents and certain freons.