Which of the following is a benefit of natural gas compared to other fossil fuels?

Natural gas is often considered a cleaner energy source compared to other fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, primarily due to its lower greenhouse gas emissions when combusted. When natural gas is burned for energy, it produces significantly less carbon dioxide per unit of energy compared to coal and oil. This is due to its chemical composition, which consists mainly of methane (CH4), a hydrocarbon that burns more efficiently and produces fewer pollutants. Consequently, transitioning to natural gas from these other fossil fuels can lead to immediate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly option in the context of energy production.

In discussions about the potential impacts of different energy sources on climate change, the emphasis is often placed on the importance of reducing overall emissions. While natural gas does emit carbon dioxide, its emissions are considerably lower than those of other fossil fuels, positioning it as a preferable choice for reducing the overall carbon footprint in the energy sector. This characteristic makes natural gas an attractive option in efforts to mitigate climate change while still providing a reliable source of energy.