What is the difference between exothermic and endothermic reactions?
Quick answer
In an exothermic reaction, energy is released to the surroundings (usually as heat), so the surroundings get warmer and the products have lower energy than the reactants. Examples: combustion, respiration, neutralisation.
In an endothermic reaction, energy is absorbed from the surroundings, so the surroundings get cooler and the products have higher energy than the reactants. Examples: photosynthesis, thermal decomposition, dissolving ammonium chloride in water.
Energy change: exothermic ΔH is negative; endothermic ΔH is positive.
Still have a doubt?
Ask Synapse's AI tutor any question — by text or photo — and get a step-by-step solution instantly, free.
Ask your doubt free →