Which of the following is an explosive component of sewer gas?

Methane is a well-known explosive component of sewer gas. In sewer systems, organic waste decomposes anaerobically, producing methane as a byproduct. This gas is highly flammable and can accumulate in confined spaces, making it a serious explosive hazard if it reaches a concentration of 5% to 15% in the air.

Understanding methane’s properties is crucial for environmental health specialists and sanitarians because it poses risks not only in terms of explosion potential but also regarding health effects when inhaled. While other gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide are present in sewer gas and can be harmful, they do not have the explosive characteristics that make methane particularly dangerous. Carbon monoxide, while toxic, is also not an explosive component in the context of sewer gas. Thus, methane stands out as the primary explosive risk associated with the decomposition of waste in sewer systems.