What family do natural gas and propane belong to?

Natural gas and propane belong to the hydrocarbon family because they are both composed primarily of hydrogen and carbon atoms. The classification into the hydrocarbon family is based on their molecular structure, which contains various arrangements of these two elements. Natural gas primarily consists of methane (CH4), while propane (C3H8) is a larger molecule made up of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms.

Understanding hydrocarbons is crucial in the context of gas technician work, as they are flammable and require proper handling and safety measures during installation, maintenance, and transportation. This knowledge aids technicians in identifying the potential hazards associated with these gases and implementing appropriate safety protocols.