Methane Gas Methane is the easiest Hydrocarbon which is the member of alkaline. Its Chemical formula is CH4 & its atomic weight is 16. Methane is usually represented as
H C H
H H
Preparation of Methane Gas Methane gas is prepared in the laboratory by heating a mixture of sodium ethanol (Sodium acetate) and Soda lime. 1. In the Chemical reaction which taking place represented below sodium Hydroxide works as a reagent while lime keeps it dry.
CaO CH3 Coo Na
+
NaOH
(Sodium Ethonate)
(Sodium Hydroxide)
CH4
+
Na2CO3
(Methane Gas) (Sodium Carbonate)
Experiment: Put the mixture obtained by mixing equal amount of Sodium ethanoate & Soda lime in a hard glass Test tube.
Fit up the apparatus as shown in the figure. Heat the mixture first gently and then strongly to obtain gas. Collect the gas evolved over water in the cylinders by down word displacement of water. Place the gas filled cylinders on the table with their mouths down word keeping a glass cover under each of them.
Bibliography: Science Text Book of 9th Class. • Microsoft Encarta •
Govt. Girls Sen. Sec. School, Bhargo Camp Jalandhar
Class 9th Prepared by: Pooja, Poonam