Thermal Energy in Chemical Reactions

chemical reaction

a process by which two or more chemical substances interact and are chemically changed, producing different chemical substances

what's the difference between an endothermic and an exothermic reaction?

an endothermic reaction is a reaction in which energy is absorbed by matter, but an exothermic reaction is a reaction in which energy is released by matter.

thermal energy

the total kinetic energy of tiny particles that make up matter; the faster the particles move, the warmer the matter becomes

what are examples of exothermic reactions?

- chemical bonds form when the heat is released - water vapor in the air releases heat and condenses into rain droplets - a combustion reaction (burning) of a match gives off heat and light

what are examples of endothermic reactions?

- fried eggs absorb heat from a pans - photosynthesis by a tree absorbs energy to break apart carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose - baking cookies