Erdgas
In short
Erdgas is a fossil fuel used primarily for heating homes and generating electricity. It consists mostly of methane and is transported through pipelines or liquefied for shipping.
In plain words
It is a gas found deep underground. People burn it to keep houses warm or to make power. It is cleaner than coal but still produces carbon dioxide.
A simple example
A kitchen hob uses natural gas to create a blue flame for cooking food. A central heating boiler also burns it to warm up water for radiators.
Why it matters
It is a major part of the global energy supply and a bridge towards renewable energy. However, leaks and burning it contribute significantly to climate change.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with biogas, which is made from rotting organic waste rather than fossil fuels.