Key terms exothermic endothermic energy profile diagram activation energy
In this chapter, you will learn to: / recognise the difference between exothermic and endothermic chemical reactions
/ draw energy profile diagrams for endothermic and exothermic chemical reactions
/ use energy profile diagrams to show how catalysts affect a chemical reaction.
Chemical reactions and heat
A change in temperature is one of the signs that a chemical reaction has taken place. You might observe an increase or decrease in temperature.
Exothermic reactions When temperature increases during a reaction, it means heat energy is being given out. Chemical reactions that give out heat to the environment are called exothermic reactions.
In exothermic reactions, heat energy transfers from the reacting chemicals to the surroundings. Examples of exothermic reactions include: • coal burning to heat a room • fireworks exploding
:Fig. 23.1 An exothermic reaction releases heat and the surroundings get warmer
:Fig. 23.2 A coal fire heating a room is an exothermic reaction 224 Elements of Science