Describe the 'odorization' process of natural gas.

The odorization process of natural gas involves the addition of a distinctive odorant specifically meant for leak detection. Natural gas, in its pure form, is odorless, which poses significant safety risks in the case of leaks since the gas could accumulate in enclosed areas without being noticed. To enhance safety, an odorant is introduced, usually a sulfur-containing compound like mercaptan, which imparts a strong, recognizable smell to the gas. This allows anyone in the vicinity to detect gas leaks quickly, facilitating timely response and minimizing risks associated with gas exposure, such as explosions or asphyxiation. The effectiveness of the odorization process is crucial in home and industrial uses, ensuring that safety measures are in place for natural gas systems.