Final answer:
The transmission segment refers to moving processed natural gas through pipelines to utilities and commercial end users. This segment is critical for distributing the purified 'dry' gas after it has been separated from its by-products and impurities at a processing plant. A - moving raw natural gas from the wellhead to the processing plant
Step-by-step explanation:
The transmission segment of the natural gas industry is defined as the part of the industry involved in moving processed natural gas to utilities and commercial end users. Specifically, this segment deals with the logistics of transporting the gas after it has been purified and processed, which means that option C (moving processed natural gas to utilities and commercial end users) correctly defines the transmission segment of the natural gas industry.
Natural gas is primarily methane (CH4), and it is produced alongside various other hydrocarbons. It often comes out of the well as 'wet' gas containing liquid hydrocarbons and non-hydrocarbon gases. At a processing plant, natural gas is refined, removing by-products like butane and propane along with various impurities, which can then be used in other products and applications such as cooking gas. After processing, the 'dry' gas, which is now suitable for consumer use, is sent through pipelines - this is the critical function of the transmission segment. Additionally, it's worth noting that natural gas can be transported as liquefied natural gas (LNG) when pipelines are not feasible, offering a more economical means of transport due to its significantly reduced volume.