Optical constants of CH4 (Methane)
Loria 1909: Gas at 0 °C; n 0.529–0.659 µm
Complex refractive index (n+ik)
Derived optical constants
Dispersion formula
$$n=1.00042607+6.1396687\text{×}10^{-6}λ^{-2}$$Conditions
temperature: 273.15 pressure: 101325
Comments
Standard conditions. 0 °C, 760 torr (101.325 kPa).
References
S. Loria. Über die Dispersion des Lichtes in gasförmigen Kohlenwasserstoffen. Annalen der Physik 334, 605-622 (1909) (in German).
Data
Additional information
About Methane
Methane (CH4) is the simplest alkane and is a colorless, odorless gas under standard conditions. It is the primary constituent of natural gas and is notable for being a potent greenhouse gas. In the environment, methane is produced during the anaerobic decomposition of organic matter, such as in wetlands, ruminant digestion, and landfills. It can also be found in various industrial processes and is used as a fuel for heating and electricity generation. In the realm of optics, methane's refractive properties might be of interest, especially when considering its potential presence in gaseous atmospheres of extraterrestrial bodies.
Other names and variations:- CH4
- Tetrahydridocarbon