It is evident that oxygen, an odorless and colorless reactive gas, serves as an essential component of life. Aside from the commonly heard gaseous necessities, natural gas has also proven to equally and indirectly impact daily activities. It is comprised of numerous hydrogen and carbon containing compounds. Commonly referred to as methane, ethane, propane etc., natural gas is utilized during regular household tasks such as dinner preparation through means of a stovetop. Although little attention has been given to the presence, retrieval and usage of natural gas, hazards and benefits are constantly revised and discovered. Natural gas, a type of fossil fuel, has existed on earth for hundreds of millions of years without proper recognition.
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The search for natural gas subjects rich, organic materials to extreme conditions for the sole purpose of straightforward acquisition. Soil contamination is the primary consequence caused by fracking. The lingering chemicals seep into neighboring soil, which in turn follows a cycle of contamination affecting wildlife and human populations. A case studied in May 2011 by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection described the eruption of a natural gas well in Pennsylvania to eject fracking fluid into soil and a nearby pond thus tainting local resources. A total of seven families were removed from homes for a time period of six days to ensure further safety and reduce the possible consumption of the contaminated materials. Groundwater is highly susceptible to the artificial components residing in crude oil and natural gas containing wells. Fracturing of the sediments creates openings that allow the fracking fluid to not only enter the targeted areas but travel into the surrounding areas as well, in cases of leaks. A study conducted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency released evidence in which ten out of eleven coalbed methane production areas observed are located within underground sources of drinking water consequently ending the direct application of chemicals into the water supply. The Safe Drinking Water Act implemented by the U.S. EPA …show more content…
Just as foreign countries rely on U.S. exports, the U.S. relies on foreign imports. Excavation of gas containing rock formations decreases the need and dependence of fossil fuel from a secondary source. The cost of imported natural gas puts an economic pressure on the country but through means of hydraulic fracturing, the U.S. is able to provide a substantial amount of natural gas for itself while simultaneously gaining profits internationally. The developing practice of fracking leads to an increasing need for jobs. A recent study performed by the IHS revealed a rough estimate increase from about 53,000 openings in 2014 to 149,000 in 2015 (5). Jason Furman, Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers stated, “Every barrel of oil or cubic foot of natural gas that we produce at home instead of importing from abroad means … More jobs … Faster growth … A lower trade deficit”. Natural gas provides domestic advantages in daily activities. The integration of the fossil fuel in power plants generates electricity. The natural gas is subjected to combustion through a gas turbine, heat exchange, and condensation of the released steam. The construction of natural gas plants is inexpensive, serving a larger range of customers, and easier to manipulate regarding the activation and suppression of the process. Natural gas in residential and commercial use involves simple tasks
The search for natural gas subjects rich, organic materials to extreme conditions for the sole purpose of straightforward acquisition. Soil contamination is the primary consequence caused by fracking. The lingering chemicals seep into neighboring soil, which in turn follows a cycle of contamination affecting wildlife and human populations. A case studied in May 2011 by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection described the eruption of a natural gas well in Pennsylvania to eject fracking fluid into soil and a nearby pond thus tainting local resources. A total of seven families were removed from homes for a time period of six days to ensure further safety and reduce the possible consumption of the contaminated materials. Groundwater is highly susceptible to the artificial components residing in crude oil and natural gas containing wells. Fracturing of the sediments creates openings that allow the fracking fluid to not only enter the targeted areas but travel into the surrounding areas as well, in cases of leaks. A study conducted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency released evidence in which ten out of eleven coalbed methane production areas observed are located within underground sources of drinking water consequently ending the direct application of chemicals into the water supply. The Safe Drinking Water Act implemented by the U.S. EPA …show more content…
Just as foreign countries rely on U.S. exports, the U.S. relies on foreign imports. Excavation of gas containing rock formations decreases the need and dependence of fossil fuel from a secondary source. The cost of imported natural gas puts an economic pressure on the country but through means of hydraulic fracturing, the U.S. is able to provide a substantial amount of natural gas for itself while simultaneously gaining profits internationally. The developing practice of fracking leads to an increasing need for jobs. A recent study performed by the IHS revealed a rough estimate increase from about 53,000 openings in 2014 to 149,000 in 2015 (5). Jason Furman, Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers stated, “Every barrel of oil or cubic foot of natural gas that we produce at home instead of importing from abroad means … More jobs … Faster growth … A lower trade deficit”. Natural gas provides domestic advantages in daily activities. The integration of the fossil fuel in power plants generates electricity. The natural gas is subjected to combustion through a gas turbine, heat exchange, and condensation of the released steam. The construction of natural gas plants is inexpensive, serving a larger range of customers, and easier to manipulate regarding the activation and suppression of the process. Natural gas in residential and commercial use involves simple tasks