What is the typical composition of water gas?

Water gas is a synthetic gas that is primarily produced by passing steam over heated carbon sources, such as coal. The typical composition of water gas consists mostly of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The correct answer indicates that this mixture usually contains around 45% carbon monoxide and 45% hydrogen.

Carbon monoxide is a key component of water gas, as it is produced from the carbon source reacting with steam. In addition, hydrogen is generated through the same reactions. The proportions can vary somewhat based on the specific process and conditions used for production, but the balance of carbon monoxide and hydrogen is a hallmark of water gas.

The other options do not accurately represent the composition of water gas. For example, significant amounts of carbon dioxide or methane are not characteristic of water gas. Carbon dioxide is typically a byproduct in smaller amounts if it is present at all, and methane, primarily found in natural gas, does not form in the water gas production process.