Exotherm

Exotherm An exotherm is a chemical reaction or physical process that releases energy in the form of heat. This type of reaction is characterized by the release of energy to the surroundings, resulting in an increase in temperature. Exothermic reactions are common in both natural and industrial processes.

Characteristics

Exothermic reactions are typically identified by a temperature rise in the surroundings. The energy released during these reactions can be in various forms, including light, sound, and heat. The enthalpy change (ΔH) for an exothermic reaction is negative, indicating that energy is being released.

Examples

Some common examples of exothermic reactions include:

• Combustion of fuels such as methane, propane, and butane.
• Respiration in living organisms.
• Neutralization reactions between acids and bases.
• Oxidation reactions, such as the rusting of iron.

Applications

Exothermic reactions have numerous applications in various fields:

• In industry, exothermic reactions are used in processes such as metal smelting, cement production, and chemical synthesis.
• In everyday life, exothermic reactions are utilized in hand warmers, self-heating cans, and fireworks.
• In biology, exothermic reactions are crucial for maintaining body temperature and providing energy for cellular processes.

Related Concepts

• Endothermic reaction: A reaction that absorbs energy from its surroundings.
• Thermodynamics: The study of energy and its transformations.
• Activation energy: The minimum energy required to initiate a chemical reaction.

See Also

• Combustion
• Respiration
• Neutralization
• Oxidation
• Endothermic reaction
• Thermodynamics
• Activation energy