ΔE
Definition
ΔE represents the change in energy of a system during a chemical reaction. It indicates whether energy is being released (negative value) or absorbed (positive value) by the system.
Analogy
Think of ΔE as the financial balance of a bank account. A negative ΔE means that money is being taken out, indicating a decrease in energy. On the other hand, a positive ΔE means that money is being deposited, representing an increase in energy.
Related terms
Enthalpy (H): Enthalpy is another term used to describe the amount of energy within a chemical system at constant pressure.
Exothermic Reaction: An exothermic reaction releases heat into its surroundings, resulting in a negative value for ΔE.
Endothermic Reaction: An endothermic reaction absorbs heat from its surroundings, leading to a positive value for ΔE.
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