What is the difference between an exothermic and an endothermic reaction?

If a reaction is exothermic, it means that it gives out energy, heating up its surroundings, and so the products have less energy than the reactants.

If a reaction is endothermic, it means that it takes in energy, cooling its surroundings, and so the products have more energy than the reactants.

Answered by Alexandra M. Chemistry tutor

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