Exothermic Reaction
Definition
An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy by light or heat. It is the opposite of an endothermic reaction.
Analogy
Think of an exothermic reaction like popping popcorn. The kernels (reactants) absorb heat, and then they pop, releasing heat and light (the products), just like in an exothermic reaction.
Related terms
Endothermic Reaction: A chemical process that absorbs energy from its surroundings in the form of heat.
Thermodynamics: The study of energy changes in physical or chemical processes.
Heat of Reaction: The change in enthalpy during a chemical reaction, which can be either absorbed (endothermic) or released (exothermic).
"Exothermic Reaction" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (6)
AP Chemistry - 5.6 Reaction Energy Profile
AP Chemistry - 6.2 Energy Diagrams of Reactions
AP Chemistry - 7.9 Introduction to Le Châtelier’s Principle
AP Chemistry - 7.10 Reaction Quotient and Le Châtelier’s Principle
AP Chemistry - 7.14 Free Energy of Dissolution
AP Chemistry - 9.3 Gibbs Free Energy and Thermodynamic Favorability
Practice Questions (1)
- When energy is released from an exothermic reaction, where does that energy go?
Resources
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