Claims for the partial oxidation of methane to CO and H-2 have been clouded by the possibility of the indirect reaction sequence occurring at hot spots in the catalyst bed. In this report, we claim that the direct reaction occurs on NiO/silica at 500 degrees C with methane conversions as high as 80% and selectivities for H-2 Of 80% and CO of 70%. Arguments are presented to show that the amount of diluent gas employed prevents formation of local hot spots with temperatures high enough for the indirect reaction to occur. Consequently, this study constitutes one of the most convincing reports for the conversion of CH4 to syngas by the partial oxidation of methane. The catalyst deactivates in 10 h. Surface studies show coke formation and aggregation of NiO contribute to the loss of activity.