How does natural gas behave when released into the air?

Natural gas is primarily composed of methane, which has a lower density than the air surrounding it. When natural gas is released into the atmosphere, it tends to rise because it is lighter than air. This behavior is crucial for understanding safety protocols in environments where natural gas is used or stored, as it can accumulate in high places, such as ceilings or attics, potentially creating hazardous situations.

The other choices address incorrect behaviors for natural gas. For example, stating that it sinks implies a denser behavior, which is contrary to its physical properties. Claiming that it stays in one place suggests a lack of movement, which does not take into account its lighter nature that causes it to disperse upward. The assertion that it explodes on contact with oxygen inaccurately suggests immediate danger from contact, while in reality, an appropriate mixture with air and an ignition source are required for combustion to occur. Thus, the correct understanding of natural gas's behavior significantly aids in ensuring safety and proper handling in various applications.