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

4212 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why can graphite conduct electricity but diamond can’t even though they are both purely made of carbon?


A student reacts calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid. Design an experiement that would allow the student to determine the rate of reaction. Draw the set up.


An isotope of Nitrogen has an atomic number of 7 and a mass number of 15. How many protons, neutrons and electrons will each atom have?does


Describe and explain the changes between sulphuric acid with copper carbonate, connected to a test tube with limewater.


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