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How Do Exothermic Reactions Release Energy During a Chemical Change?

Exothermic reactions are really interesting! They are chemical changes that give off energy into the environment. This energy usually comes out as heat or light, so we can easily notice these reactions happening.

How It Works

In simple terms, exothermic reactions happen when molecules break apart and then form new ones. When new bonds are created, they let go of more energy than what was needed to break the original bonds. So, the extra energy is released, mostly as heat.

Examples of Exothermic Reactions:

  1. Burning Fuels: One common example is when we burn things like natural gas or coal. For example, when methane (a gas) reacts with oxygen, it creates carbon dioxide and water while releasing a lot of heat:

    • Reaction: Methane + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Heat
  2. Breathing: Another example is how our bodies get energy. When we breathe, glucose (a type of sugar) combines with oxygen to give us energy, producing carbon dioxide and water:

    • Reaction: Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy

Why Exothermic Reactions Matter

Exothermic reactions are important in our everyday lives. They help keep our homes warm. They are also vital in factories and other industries. By studying these reactions, scientists can find better ways to create and use energy and come up with new technologies.

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How Do Exothermic Reactions Release Energy During a Chemical Change?

Exothermic reactions are really interesting! They are chemical changes that give off energy into the environment. This energy usually comes out as heat or light, so we can easily notice these reactions happening.

How It Works

In simple terms, exothermic reactions happen when molecules break apart and then form new ones. When new bonds are created, they let go of more energy than what was needed to break the original bonds. So, the extra energy is released, mostly as heat.

Examples of Exothermic Reactions:

  1. Burning Fuels: One common example is when we burn things like natural gas or coal. For example, when methane (a gas) reacts with oxygen, it creates carbon dioxide and water while releasing a lot of heat:

    • Reaction: Methane + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Heat
  2. Breathing: Another example is how our bodies get energy. When we breathe, glucose (a type of sugar) combines with oxygen to give us energy, producing carbon dioxide and water:

    • Reaction: Glucose + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy

Why Exothermic Reactions Matter

Exothermic reactions are important in our everyday lives. They help keep our homes warm. They are also vital in factories and other industries. By studying these reactions, scientists can find better ways to create and use energy and come up with new technologies.

Related articles