Mecaptan, added to natural gas, is similar in odor to what?

Mecaptan is an odorant intentionally added to natural gas to help detect leaks, as natural gas itself is colorless and odorless. The scent of mecaptan is specifically designed to resemble the smell of rotten eggs, which serves as an effective warning signal. This association is critical for safety, as the strong and unpleasant odor ensures that individuals can quickly recognize the presence of a gas leak, prompting them to take necessary precautions or evacuate the area. This makes the correct answer not just accurate, but essential for understanding gas safety protocols and ensuring effective leak detection practices.