Which gas is primarily generated along with carbon dioxide during anaerobic digestion?

During anaerobic digestion, organic matter is broken down by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen. This process primarily generates biogas, which is composed of several gases, with methane being the most significant component alongside carbon dioxide. Methane is produced as a result of the decomposition of organic material and is a key energy source in this process.

The production of methane not only highlights an important aspect of energy recovery from waste but also underscores the role of anaerobic bacteria in transforming organic substances into usable fuel. This process is critical in managing waste and contributes to renewable energy sources, making methane a valuable byproduct of anaerobic digestion. Other gases, such as hydrogen sulfide, can be produced as well, but the predominant gas generated with carbon dioxide is methane.