Gas hydrates are unique crystalline solids where methane or various gases become trapped within water molecules. This interaction creates an ice-like structure, which holds significant energy potential.
These hydrates form under specific conditions characterized by high pressure and low temperatures. Typically, they are found in seabed sediments and permafrost regions, where the right environmental factors exist.
The methane contained within gas hydrates can serve as a viable alternative to natural gas when extracted. This makes gas hydrates an important unconventional energy source.
In India, large reserves of gas hydrates have been identified in regions such as the Krishna-Godavari (KG) Basin, the Mahanadi Basin, and the Andaman Sea.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that India's gas hydrate potential reaches approximately 1,894 trillion cubic meters. This figure highlights India's substantial resource base.
If harnessed, these reserves could play a crucial role in supplementing India’s natural gas supply. Additionally, they could reduce energy imports, thereby enhancing long-term energy security for the nation.
India initiated the National Gas Hydrate Program (NGHP) in 1997 to explore these reserves. This program led to two significant drilling expeditions in 2006 and 2015, confirming the presence of gas hydrates in offshore basins.
Despite confirming the presence of gas hydrates, commercial production has not yet commenced. This is largely due to the need for further technological advancements and the development of cost-effective extraction methods.
Q1. What are gas hydrates?
Answer: Gas hydrates are crystalline solids formed by the trapping of gases like methane within water molecules, resulting in an ice-like structure.
Q2. Where are India's gas hydrate reserves located?
Answer: India's gas hydrate reserves are primarily found in the Krishna-Godavari Basin, Mahanadi Basin, and the Andaman Sea.
Q3. Why are gas hydrates important for energy security?
Answer: Gas hydrates can provide an alternative energy source, reducing dependency on imports and contributing to long-term energy security in India.
Q4. What challenges exist in extracting gas hydrates?
Answer: Key challenges include the complex extraction processes, environmental risks, and the need for advanced technology to make extraction feasible.
Q5. Has India begun commercial production of gas hydrates?
Answer: No, commercial production has not started yet as further technological developments and cost-effective methods are required.
Question 1: What are gas hydrates primarily composed of?
A) Water and carbon dioxide
B) Methane and water
C) Hydrogen and oxygen
D) Carbon and nitrogen
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which basin in India is known for gas hydrate reserves?
A) Ganges Basin
B) Krishna-Godavari Basin
C) Indus Basin
D) Yamuna Basin
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What year did India launch the National Gas Hydrate Program?
A) 1995
B) 1997
C) 2000
D) 2005
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is a major challenge in extracting gas hydrates?
A) High temperatures
B) Sediment instability
C) Saltwater intrusion
D) Low demand
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is the estimated gas hydrate potential of India according to the IEA?
A) 500 trillion cubic meters
B) 1,894 trillion cubic meters
C) 2,500 trillion cubic meters
D) 3,000 trillion cubic meters
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which expedition confirmed the presence of gas hydrates in India?
A) 2000
B) 2006
C) 2010
D) 2015
Correct Answer: B
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