Which of the following statements are correct about the deposits of ‘methane hydrate’?

  1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.
  2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.
  3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3


Answer: (d)        

Explanation:

Methane hydrate and its formation

  • Methane hydrate is a type of ice formed naturally in subsurface deposits.
  • It is stable at low temperatures but can break down if the temperature increases.
  • Methane hydrate can be found in sediment and sedimentary rock units below Arctic permafrost, along continental margins, in deep-water sediments of inland lakes and seas, and under Antarctic ice.

Impact of melting methane hydrates on climate change

  • Methane is trapped in the sediments beneath the sea floor in the form of methane hydrate.
  • Melting of ice due to global warming can trigger the release of methane gas, a greenhouse gas that can contribute to climate change.
  • The methane gas released can be oxidized to form carbon dioxide, which is also a greenhouse gas.

Lifespan of methane in the atmosphere

  • Methane is a relatively short-lived gas in the atmosphere.
  • It can be oxidized to water and carbon dioxide within a decade or so, mainly by reaction with other trace gases.

Consider the following statements:                                                                   The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

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Consider the following statements:                                                         The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

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