What is the difference between an exothermic and endothermic reaction?

Exothermic = A reaction that transfers energy to its souroundings therefore the temperature of the sourounding increases (gets hotter). Can you think of an example? E.g. combustion, neutralisation. As heat is released the products have less energy than the reactantsDiagram of Beaker with arrows pointing outwards to represent energy loss to the souroundings
Endothermic= A reaction that takes in energy from its souroundings so the temperatue decreases (gets colder). Example includes thermal decomposition. Heat is absorbed, the products have more energy than the reactants. diagram

PE
Answered by Priscilla E. Chemistry tutor

4092 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the end point in a titration?


What is the mass percentage of carbon in a CO2 molecule?


What is the Avogadro constant and what are moles?


Can you explain the properties of a giant covalent lattice?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning