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.

Answered by Charlotte C. Chemistry tutor

6509 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the test for CO2 gas? Describe the overall reaction that takes place in the instance of a positive result and write its reaction equation.


What is an isotope?


Draw a dot and cross diagram to show the bond present in Sodium Chloride (NaCl). State what type of bonding this is and the type of structure this compound forms.


What is the difference between and Alkane and an Alkene


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences