Energy and Utilities Natural Gas Systems 3

Question 1

What is 'hydraulic fracturing' (fracking) used to extract in the US energy industry?

Accepted Answer

Coalbed methane and shale gas/oil

Answer

Hydraulic fracturing injects high-pressure fluid to crack tight rock formations and release trapped natural gas or oil.

Question 2

What is the function of a gas chromatograph at a pipeline custody transfer point?

Accepted Answer

Analyze gas composition to calculate heating value for billing

Answer

Gas chromatographs separate and measure gas components to determine the energy content for accurate commercial measurement at transfer points.

Question 3

Which class designation indicates a natural gas pipeline segment in a densely populated area under US regulations?

Accepted Answer

Class 4

Answer

Class 4 locations under 49 CFR Part 192 are areas with multi-story buildings and require the highest pipeline safety standards.

Question 4

What is a natural gas 'pig' used for in pipeline operations?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning, inspecting, or separating products inside the pipeline

Answer

Pipeline inspection gauges (PIGs) travel through pipelines driven by gas pressure to clean debris, remove liquids, or detect defects.

Question 5

What does 'wellhead price' refer to in natural gas markets?

Accepted Answer

The price of gas at the point of production before transportation

Answer

Wellhead price is the value of natural gas at the production site before any gathering, processing, or transportation costs are added.

Energy and Utilities Practice Test