How does small amounts of methane affect the explosibility of coal dust?

Small amounts of methane significantly increase the explosibility of coal dust when mixed in the underground mining environment. Methane is a flammable gas that, when present alongside coal dust, can create a more volatile mixture. When a spark or an ignition source is introduced, the presence of methane can lead to a more intense and powerful explosion than coal dust alone would produce. This increased explosibility arises from the fact that methane serves as an additional fuel source, enhancing the energy released during an explosion. Proper monitoring of methane levels is crucial in mining operations to maintain safety and prevent potentially catastrophic events.