Scientists Will Monitor Deepwater Horizon Methane Plumes for Gulf Oil Spill Answers

Friday, June 4, 2010 - 15:20 in Earth & Climate

Much of the focus at the Deepwater Horizon disaster site has been on the oil pouring out of the damaged well, but some researchers are beginning to turn their attention to the methane , or natural, gas escaping along with the gushing crude. Careful study of this methane, which comprises about 40 percent of the riser pipe output, is expected to provide scientists with a wealth of information, including a more accurate calculation of the spill's magnitude and thereby a better understanding of its impact on ocean life. [More] Presented By: Expedition Great White Expedition Great WhiteA team of experts lands the ocean's fiercest predators, studies them live on deck, and releases them unharmed. New Series Premieres Sunday at 9P on National Geographic Channel. Learn more at natgeotv.com/greatwhite   Ads by Pheedo Deepwater Horizon - Oil spill -...

Read the whole article on Scientific American

More from Scientific American

Latest Science Newsletter

Get the latest and most popular science news articles of the week in your Inbox! It's free!

Check out our next project, Biology.Net