Q: With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called ‘coalbed methane’ and ‘shale gas’, consider the following ‘statements:
a) Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks.
b) In India abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.
The Correct Answer is Neither 1 nor 2.
Shale gasÂ
- It refers to natural gas that is trapped within shale formations.Â
- Shales are fine-grained sedimentary rocks that can be rich sources of petroleum and natural gas.
- It is natural gas and is a hydrocarbon gas mixture.Â
- It consists mainly of methane.Â
- It contains other hydrocarbons like ethane, propane, and butane, and it also contains carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and hydrogen sulfide. Hence, Statement 1 is not correct.
- India has identified six basins as areas for shale gas exploration: Cambay (Gujarat), Assam-Arakan (North East), Gondwana (Central India), Krishna Godavari onshore (East Coast), Cauvery onshore, and Indo-Gangetic basins. Hence, Statement 2 is not correct.
Coalbed methane
- It is a non-conventional and is a major source of natural gas.
- It is extracted from coal seams.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
