Clathrate hydrates are crystalline structures formed when water molecules trap gas molecules, such as methane or carbon dioxide, within their lattice. These hydrates typically form under high pressure and low temperature conditions, often found in deep ocean sediments and permafrost regions. They can contain large amounts of gas, making them a potential energy resource. The stability of clathrate hydrates is sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure. If conditions shift, the trapped gas can be released, which may contribute to climate change if significant amounts of methane escape into the atmosphere. Understanding these hydrates is crucial for both energy exploration and environmental science.