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The gaseous constituent of natural gas is called Butane. Petroleum products are refined but natural gas products like butane are extracted. Butane gas can be produced from crude oil, but the quantity produced in this case would be considerably less. Several times it has been seen that Butane is added to gasoline. This is done to enhance the performance of gasoline without the creation of a highly volatile compound. Butane is also used in refrigerators and as fuel in cigarette lighters.

The chemical formula for Butane is C4H10. This gas is colourless and is normally called n-butane where ‘n’ stands for ‘normal’. Isobutane is an isomer of butane and can be substituted as a refrigerant in refrigerators. Basically, it can replace Freon refrigerants.

Raw natural gas is made up of many types of products, and Butane is one of them. Butane is combined with Propane to form the commonly known product LPG, or Liquefied Petroleum Gas. This is the same gas that is commercially sold for use in cylinders, gas stoves and grills. The physical property of Butane is unique. It easily gets converted to liquid when it is compressed. However upon being released into the air, it becomes highly flammable. As soon as it comes in contact with an ignited source, it will catch fire. Butane only gives out carbon dioxide as a waste product upon ignition. But many other natural gas products give out carbon monoxide.

If you closely observe a cigarette lighter, you will see that once you depress the valve, liquid Butane turns into gas as soon as it loses pressure. If Butane is inhaled it can have harmful effects. Effects of inhalation commonly observed are blurring of vision and incoherent speech. People can also experience coughing, nausea and vomiting, and an increase in salivation. With higher exposure they can also experience confusion and hallucinations. Delusions can also occur, and this may result in aggressive behavioural patterns. Tinnitus, a ringing noise in the ears and Ataxia, a problem with muscle movements are also some of the side effects.

Large doses of Butane can affect the central nervous system. The patient can experience depression and drowsiness. The patient can go into a coma and sudden death may also occur. The reason for sudden death is anoxia. Impairment of respiratory and cardiac functions are also possible. In case of minimal exposure such as a leakage from gas cylinders and tanks, people may complain of headaches and drowsiness. Patients who have been exposed to Butane gas should be given symptomatic care. Bed rest is usually advised along with regular monitoring of ECG. Stimulants such as adrenaline and nor adrenaline are to be avoided unless required for resuscitation.

Nature has provided us with many resources that, when used in the proper manner, can make life easier – and when abused can be detrimental as well. To derive the benefits and to avoid harmful effects, all that is needed is a little understanding of their usage and proper handling with due care.