What are the differences between exothermic and endothermic reactions?

Reactions are all about the formation and the breaking of bonds between atoms. The formation of bonds within a system causes energy to be released whilst the breaking of bonds requires energy to be applied to the system. In endothermic reactions more bonds are broken than formed during the reaction process. This means that the amount of energy applied to the system is greater than the amount of energy released by it, resulting in a positive enthalpy change for the reaction. In exothermic reactions it's quite the opposite: More bonds are formed than broken during the reaction process. This means that the amount of energy released by the system is greater than the amount of energy applied to it, resulting in a negative enthalpy change for the reaction.

WL
Answered by William L. Chemistry tutor

5082 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the enthalpy of atomisation?


Explain how dyes are separated by paper chromatography.


Explain what a hydrocarbon is, and suggest two properties of hydrocarbons that leave a fractioning column near the top.


Explain how electricity is conducted through a metal. To gain full marks your answer must include a description of the structure and bonding in a metal.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences