What is the specific gravity of methane?

The specific gravity of methane is a measure of how dense it is compared to air. Methane has a specific gravity of approximately 0.5, which indicates that it is lighter than air. This characteristic is important in mining and safety contexts because it affects how methane behaves in the atmosphere. Since methane is lighter, it will rise and disperse in the air, which impacts ventilation strategies and the management of gas levels in underground operations. Understanding the properties of gases like methane is crucial for ensuring safety protocols and effective rescue operations in a mine environment.