Question 47

Natural gas-fired power plants produce carbon dioxide when burning natural gas.

The burning of natural gas in power plants primarily results in the production of carbon dioxide, which is a significant greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.

A) Hydrogen

Hydrogen is not a greenhouse gas and is not produced in significant quantities during the combustion of natural gas. While hydrogen can be a byproduct in some chemical processes, it does not contribute to the greenhouse gas emissions associated with natural gas-fired power plants.

B) Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is not produced by the combustion of natural gas. It is typically found in soil and rock and is not relevant to the emissions from power plants using natural gas.

C) Carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas emitted when natural gas is burned for energy. While natural gas is considered to be a cleaner fossil fuel than coal or oil, its combustion still releases a significant amount of carbon dioxide, making it a critical factor in discussions about greenhouse gas emissions.

D) Helium

Helium is an inert gas that is not produced during the combustion of natural gas. It does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and is not relevant in the context of power plant emissions.

Conclusion

The correct answer is carbon dioxide, as it is the main greenhouse gas emitted from the burning of natural gas in power plants. Other options, such as hydrogen, radon, and helium, do not play a role in greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas combustion, thereby confirming that C is the only accurate response.