Figure 4: Route of abiotic CH4 formation.
From: Abiotic methanogenesis from organosulphur compounds under ambient conditions
The ferryl species ([FeIV=O]2+, coloured in orange) is postulated to be primarily responsible for CH4 formation (see text). The carbon atom from which CH4 emerges is highlighted in light red. Starting materials are coloured in dark red (stoichiometric factors omitted).
