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Uses and applications of energy changes

Energy changes • Exothermic and endothermic reactions

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Exothermic reactions release thermal energy because the products possess lower total energy than the reactants, resulting in excess energy that warms the surroundings.
  • In contrast, endothermic reactions absorb thermal energy as products have higher total energy than reactants, drawing heat from the surroundings and reducing temperature.

Flashcards

Test your knowledge with interactive flashcards

How does photosynthesis exemplify an endothermic process?

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Photosynthesis absorbs solar energy to form chemical bonds in glucose, storing energy in biomass, making it an endothermic process.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Exothermic → releases heat; endothermic → absorbs heat.

Compare ΔH per mole; convert to energy per device for accurate comparisons.

Rapid reactions yield quick temperature changes; controllability often compromises speed.

Activation energy and catalysts dictate practical reactions at ambient conditions.

Assess by-products, toxicity, and waste management for application suitability.

Heat transfer efficiency influences usable temperature changes.

Reversible systems support storage and repeated use; irreversible systems are for single-use.

Cost of reactants can overshadow theoretical energy benefits.

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