EXOTHERMIC AND

ENDOTHERMIC
REACTIONS
By Hiya Katyal
Exothermic reactions
◦ Exothermic reactions are those that release heat to the surroundings. These
reactions are common in everyday life and have numerous applications such
as:
◦ Combustion: Combustion is the process of burning, which releases heat and
light. It is the basis for many energy sources, including fossil fuels, natural gas,
and wood. Combustion is also used in various industrial processes, such as
welding, metal refining, and power generation.
◦ Cooking: Cooking involves various exothermic reactions, such as the Maillard
reaction, which caramelizes sugars and proteins, and the browning of bread.
These reactions contribute to the flavor and texture of cooked foods.
◦ Digestion: Digestion involves a series of exothermic reactions that break down
food into molecules that the body can absorb and use. These reactions are
essential for obtaining energy from food.
◦ Hand warmers: Hand warmers contain a mixture of chemicals that undergo
exothermic reactions when activated. These reactions release heat, providing
warmth for the hands.
◦ Thermite welding: Thermite welding is a high-temperature welding process
that utilizes an exothermic reaction between aluminum and iron oxide to
generate intense heat. This process is used to weld thick metals and railway
tracks.
Endothermic reactions
◦ Endothermic reactions are those that absorb heat from the surroundings.
These reactions are also essential in various processes, including:
◦ Photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light
energy into chemical energy. This process is endothermic, requiring sunlight to
produce glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water.
◦ Melting: Melting involves the
transition of a solid substance into
a liquid form. This process is
endothermic, requiring heat to
break the intermolecular bonds in
the solid.
◦ Dissolving: Dissolving involves the
separation of particles of a solid
substance into a liquid solvent. This
process is often endothermic,
requiring heat to overcome the
intermolecular forces that hold the
solid particles together.
◦ Refrigeration: Refrigeration
involves the absorption of heat
from one substance to cool
another. This process utilizes
endothermic reactions to achieve
cooling.
◦ Ice packs: Ice packs contain a
mixture of chemicals that undergo
endothermic reactions when
activated. These reactions absorb
heat, providing cooling for injured
areas.
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