What does a negative value of enthalpy change (ΔH) imply for a reaction?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the implications of a negative value of enthalpy change (ΔH) in a chemical reaction. A negative ΔH indicates that the reaction is exothermic, meaning that it releases heat to the surroundings.
Answer
A negative ΔH indicates an exothermic reaction, meaning heat is released to the surroundings.
The final answer is that a negative value of enthalpy change (ΔH) implies the reaction is exothermic.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that a negative value of enthalpy change (ΔH) implies the reaction is exothermic.
More Information
An exothermic reaction has a net release of energy, as the potential energy of the reactants is greater than that of the products. Combustion reactions are common exothermic reactions.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse negative with positive ΔH, which signifies an endothermic reaction where heat is absorbed.
Sources
- 7.6: Heats of Reactions - U and H - chem.libretexts.org
- 5.4: Enthalpy of Reaction - chem.libretexts.org
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
