Final answer:
Salt caverns are used to store natural gas due to their unique geological characteristics. Gas is injected into these caverns under high pressure and can be withdrawn when needed. Salt caverns provide reliable and accessible storage for natural gas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Salt caverns are used for the storage of natural gas due to their unique geological characteristics. These caverns are formed when underground salt deposits are dissolved, creating large underground voids. Natural gas can be injected into these caverns under high pressure, effectively storing the gas until it is needed.
The advantage of using salt caverns for natural gas storage is that salt has a low permeability, meaning gas is less likely to leak out of the cavern. Additionally, the pressure within the cavern can be adjusted to regulate the flow of gas in and out.
When natural gas is required, the gas can be withdrawn from the cavern by releasing the pressure, allowing the gas to flow out. This stored natural gas can then be used as a reliable and accessible energy resource when needed.