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Difference Between CNG and LPG Overview, Detailed Comparison

Difference Between CNG and LPG, Get all the details and definition with example here. Understand Difference Between CNG and LPG to prepare well for NEET UG exam.
authorImagePraveen Kushwah27 May, 2025
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Difference Between CNG and LPG

Difference Between CNG and LPG:  Natural gases are formed deep inside the Earth over hundreds of years. We can bring them to the surface by pumping. Once extracted, they go through a cleaning process to remove impurities.

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The process also produces other gases like ethane, propane, butane, and heavier hydrocarbons. These gases find their way into our daily lives in the form of CNG, LPG, and more. Understanding facts about CNG, and LPG, and the differences between them is quite interesting because it is an important topic from the NEET perspective.

Difference Between CNG and LPG Overview

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) are alternative fuels that differ in composition, storage, and applications. CNG mainly has methane and is stored under high pressure as a gas, making it suitable for vehicular use. It is recognized for its lower carbon emissions and is commonly utilized in public transportation and private vehicles. On the other hand, LPG includes propane and butane, stored as a liquid under moderate pressure. LPG finds applications in residential cooking, heating, and as a vehicle fuel. While both CNG and LPG serve as cleaner alternatives to traditional fuels, their storage methods and chemical compositions vary. CNG requires high-pressure storage tanks, limiting its use to vehicles with specially designed systems. LPG, stored in liquid form, is more versatile and applicable in various settings, including households and automotive use. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for choosing the most suitable alternative fuel based on specific requirements and applications.

Difference Between CNG and LPG

Understanding these differences can help individuals choose the appropriate fuel for their vehicles or household needs based on energy efficiency, infrastructure availability, and combustion characteristics. But here this topic is crucially important from the NEET exam point of view, so every candidate must check it out.

Difference Between CNG and LPG
Parameters CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas)
Composition Mostly methane gas A mix of propane and butane gases
State Gaseous at normal temperature Liquid at normal temperature
Density Lower density compared to LPG Higher density compared to CNG
Storage Stored in high-pressure cylinders Stored in low-pressure cylinders
Energy Content Lower energy content per cubic meter Higher energy content per cubic meter
Combustion Characteristics Cleaner combustion produces fewer emissions Complete combustion produces more emissions compared to CNG
Cost Generally lower cost compared to LPG Cost varies, may be higher than CNG
Infrastructure Limited availability of CNG stations Widespread availability of LPG
Vehicle Compatibility Requires specific CNG-compatible vehicles Can be used in both LPG and dual-fuel vehicles

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CNG Definition

CNG, or Compressed Natural Gas, is a type of natural gas that is compressed to reduce its volume for storage and transportation. It primarily consists of methane and is used as a fuel for vehicles and in some industrial applications. CNG is considered a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, as it produces fewer emissions during combustion. Example: A car that runs on CNG has a specially designed CNG tank, and the vehicle's engine is adapted to burn compressed natural gas. Public transportation fleets and personal vehicles can be converted to use CNG as a more environmentally friendly fuel source.

LPG Definition

LPG, or Liquified Petroleum Gas, is a flammable hydrocarbon gas that includes propane and butane. It is stored in a liquid state under moderate pressure, making it easier to transport and store. LPG is commonly used for heating, cooking, and as a fuel for vehicles. It is versatile and widely available for both residential and commercial use. Example: Many households use LPG for cooking purposes through gas stoves. Additionally, some vehicles are designed to run on LPG, providing an alternative fuel option that is cleaner compared to traditional gasoline.

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Difference Between CNG and LPG FAQs

Why LPG is not used in cars?

LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) is indeed used in cars, but its popularity has waned in comparison to CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and traditional gasoline. LPG cars faced challenges such as limited availability of refueling stations, lower energy density compared to CNG, and slightly higher emissions. CNG gained prominence due to its better emission characteristics and widespread infrastructure support.

Which is the cleanest fuel, LPG or CNG?

CNG is considered the cleaner fuel between the two. Comprising primarily methane, CNG emits fewer pollutants during combustion compared to LPG (propane and butane). It is recognized for its lower carbon content, making it a more environmentally friendly choice in terms of air quality and greenhouse gas emissions.

Which gives better mileage, CNG or LPG?

CNG generally provides better mileage compared to LPG. This is attributed to the higher energy content of methane in CNG. Vehicles running on CNG tend to cover more distance per unit of fuel, making it a more fuel-efficient option.

Can I use LPG in a CNG car?

No, LPG and CNG are distinct fuels, each requiring specific engine configurations and fueling systems. Vehicles are designed to run on either LPG or CNG, and attempting to use the wrong fuel can lead to engine damage and safety hazards.

Why did LPG cars stop in India?

The decline of LPG cars in India can be attributed to factors such as the increasing popularity of CNG, limited refueling infrastructure for LPG, and advancements in electric and hybrid technologies. CNG gained favor due to its cleaner emissions, better mileage, and improved refueling network, leading to a decrease in the adoption of LPG-powered vehicles in the country.
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