An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of heat. This means that the products of the reaction have less energy than the reactants, and the excess energy is released into the surrounding environment in the form of heat.
1. Combustion of fuels such as burning wood, coal, or gasoline
2. Neutralization reactions between acids and bases
3. Many types of oxidation reactions, such as the rusting of iron
Exothermic reactions can have various effects, including:
When studying exothermic reactions, it's important to: