[thedoc (OP)]

Lance Schenko  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
I'm a long time listener first time writer. My question is, what is a methane hotspot? I read an article ( http://www.digitaljournal.com/science/nasa-now-says-vast-methane-cloud-over-us-southwest-is-for-real/article/408082 ) talking about this "hotspot" is this true? Is there such a thing? I would like my answer to be read on your podcast/radio show if this is possible. Or let me know where I should ask this so it can be answered on air. Thank you for your time
What do you think?

[CliffordK]

Most interesting.

Methane is lighter than air, so it goes up.

The methane should dissipate over time.  They don't list the density, but assuming a density significantly lower than oxygen, then the methane will slowly become oxidized into CO₂.

I could imagine the dangers of methane release in underground coal mining, as well as the difficulties of capturing methane with open pit mining. 

Anyway, the idea of a methane hotspot would be the localized greenhouse effect from a region of increased methane density, with the higher density maintained by continuous methane release into the atmosphere.

Perhaps this localized methane buildup should be considered as a risk for polar regions at risk of methane release from permafrost or methyl hydrates. 

[alancalverd]

My dog likes to climb on my bed and sleep nose-to-tail with me. I know exactly where the methane hotspot is, and it wakes me every morning.