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

3836 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the properties of ionic compounds?


What are the relative masses of protons, neutrons and electrons?


What is produced when Sodium Carbonate reacts with Hydrochloric Acid


Why is this reaction an Endothermic reaction?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning