Which of the following statements are correct about the deposits of ‘methane hydrate’?
- Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.
- Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.
- 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.
