What do mains in a gas distribution system do?

Mains in a gas distribution system serve a crucial role by conveying gas to individual service lines. These mains are large pipes that transport natural gas from the transmission lines, where the gas is under high pressure, to lower-pressure systems that distribute the gas to various consumers, such as homes and businesses.

By connecting to service lines, the mains ensure that gas flow is efficiently directed to meet the needs of end users. This function is fundamental in maintaining the operational integrity of the gas distribution system, facilitating safe and reliable gas delivery.

The other options, while related to gas systems, do not accurately describe the primary function of mains. Storing gas for emergency use, transporting gas to storage tanks, and measuring gas pressure are all important aspects of gas operations, but they occur within different components of the gas delivery infrastructure and do not specifically pertain to the role of mains.