Equal and Opposite Energy Quick Check
1.A researcher can determine that an exothermic reaction has occurred in a flask if(1 point)
O lots of particle movement is visible.
O minimal particle movement is visible.
O the flask feels cool.
O the flask feels warm.
In a certain reaction, molecules are moving faster and colliding more often as reactants turn into products. Which action is happening?(1 point)
O Heat is being passed; the reaction is endothermic
O Heat is being passed; the reaction is exothermic
O Heat is being absorbed; the reaction is exothermic.
O Heat is being absorbed; the reaction is endothermic.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answers:
- The flask feels warm.
- Heat is being absorbed; the reaction is endothermic.
Explanation:
Understanding Exothermic Reactions:
An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases heat into the surroundings. This means the system (reactants and products inside the flask) loses energy, while the surrounding environment, including the flask itself, gains energy. A classic example is the combustion of fuels or the reaction between an acid and a base. If a researcher touches the flask after an exothermic reaction, they will feel warmth due to the heat being released.
The other options—such as particle movement—may also be influenced by temperature changes, but they are not as direct an indicator of an exothermic reaction as the temperature of the flask.
Understanding Endothermic Reactions:
An endothermic reaction is a reaction that absorbs heat from the surroundings, causing the environment to lose heat while the system gains energy. This absorption of heat leads to an increase in the kinetic energy of particles, making them move faster and collide more often. Examples include photosynthesis and the melting of ice.
In the given question, the molecules are moving faster and colliding more often, indicating an increase in temperature within the system. Since heat is being absorbed, this confirms that the reaction is endothermic. The misconception arises when people think that an increase in movement automatically means heat is released—it actually means energy is being gained within the system.
Both exothermic and endothermic reactions play a crucial role in various natural and industrial processes, from metabolism in living organisms to energy production in power plants.
Generated Image:
A scientific illustration showing two beakers—one labeled “Exothermic Reaction” with heat waves rising, and another labeled “Endothermic Reaction” with a cooling effect.
Here is the generated image illustrating the difference between exothermic and endothermic reactions. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!
