Question detail
Explain what makes a reaction exothermic, using energy transfer to the surroundings in your answer.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Exothermic and endothermic reactions
Question
Explain what makes a reaction exothermic, using energy transfer to the surroundings in your answer.
Answer
A reaction is exothermic when it transfers energy from the reacting system to the surroundings, usually causing the surroundings to become warmer.
Explanation
This is not just a label for a warm reaction. The key idea is the direction of energy transfer: energy leaves the chemicals and enters the surroundings. That is why temperature rise is evidence for an exothermic reaction in the Energy transfer subtopic.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Exothermic Reactions
Students often think that exothermic reactions absorb energy from the surroundings instead of transferring it.
Remember that an exothermic reaction is defined as one that transfers energy to the surroundings, resulting in a release of heat.
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