Natural Gas Extraction

Natural gas extraction involves drilling deep underground to access reservoirs containing methane-rich gas trapped in porous rock formations. The process begins with drilling a well, often horizontally, into the source rock. Once drilled, the well is stimulated—sometimes with techniques like hydraulic fracturing ("fracking")—to create fissures that allow the gas to flow more freely. The gas is then brought to the surface, where impurities are usually removed and it is processed for use in electricity generation, heating, or as fuel. Advances in drilling technology have increased access to natural gas, making extraction more efficient and, in some cases, environmentally manageable.