Liquefied petroleum gas, the LPG, is chemically known as the propane gas. It varies from that of the natural gas in a number of ways. Consider to take into account of some of the important aspects of consideration to compare the two gases. Look at the compression ratio level, the efficiency in the form of energy obtained, as well the costs associated with the manufacturing of the two gases, and many other points. You will see a significant difference.
At the same time from the applications point of view, especially from the consumer view, there will not be any difference experience while using a propane gas or natural gas. It is because of the equivalent performances obtained in both the cases. Whether it is the heating appliance or the cooling ones or even all those applications that are meant for the drying purposes, of the gases do yield almost equivalent outputs.
When you look into the chemistry in detailed, the natural gas actually also contain propane. The natural gas is a combination or mixture of many of the gases including the propane. While the liquefied petroleum gas is just propane alone as its main content. There is not methane, pentane, butane or the ethane that is available in the case of the natural gas along with the propane.
Significant difference in the utilities between the two gases lies on the characteristic property to liquefy to be transportable. The propane could be turned into liquid for very low temperatures compared to the natural gas. This property of the gas is the advantage as well. You are allowed to compress the gas and it could be carried well in portable containers. All those petrol bunks in the country do sell these compressed propane gas.
Exactly when you are going to release the gas to be utilized for a specific application, you are using a special valve to decompress the gas. It is to be sent in micro ounces to be utilized effectively for the particular application. For example, consider the gas stoves in your houses and the LPG cylinders. The valve is very important. This is doing the magic of turning down the compressed propane to optimal saturation to be used as a fuel. Consider watching a barbeque grill closely. You will see the happenings to understand in detailed.
The presence of such valves at the source of usage cannot make any difference when you are using the natural gas. They do not compress that easily. You need to be connected to the utility dedicated lines for consistent supply of the gas to your residence or hotels or business place.
Good examples to view such applications are the central heating systems in the winter houses, the dryers used in the laundries, and in special water heaters. Explosion during a mishap or accident is of severe damage in the case of using propane than while using the natural gas. The propane is heavier and tends to fall down and explode. While the natural gas lifts up and explodes in the air.