What is the difference between an endothermic and exothermic reaction?

(Using a diagram of energy changes) The simplest way of thinking about it is that exothermic reactions release energy, such as heat, to the surroundings whereas endothermic reactions absorb energy from the surroundings. This is because in an exothermic reaction the bonds in the products are stronger and more stable than in the reactants, while the opposite will be true for an endothermic reaction. Another way of thinking about it is that exothermic reactions are making bonds and endothermic reactions are breaking bonds. You can remember this by thinking MEXOBENDO --> MEXO= making bonds is exothermic BENDO = breaking bonds is endothermic. An example of an exothermic reaction is combustion, and one of an endothermic reaction is melting ice.

CC
Answered by Charlotte C. Chemistry tutor

8823 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I work out what the ionic charge is for different elements in the periodic table?


Explain why Francium is the most reactive Group 1 element in terms of its electronic structure.


A compound is found to contain 23.3% magnesium, 30.7% sulfur and 46.0% oxygen. What is the empirical formula of this compound?


Define what 1 mole is


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences