Exothermic reaction

An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction in which the heat energy of the surroundings increases, due to the release of energy from chemical bonds. The opposite of an exothermic reaction is an endothermic reaction in which the heat energy is taken in as opposed to given out. An exothermic reaction can be called a 'heat giving' reaction. Exothermic reactions are associated with the making of stronger chemical bonds.

Examples of Exothermic Reactions:

• Combustion reactions of fuels or a substance
• Neutralization
• Deposition of dry ice (carbon dioxide) from the gaseous state
• Adding water to anhydrous copper(II) sulphate
• The thermite reaction
• Reactions taking place in a self-heating can be based on lime aluminium
• Many corrosion reactions such as oxidation of metals
• Decomposition of vegetable matter into compost
• Solution of sulfuric acid into water
• Dehydration of sugars upon contact with sulfuric acid
• Detonation of nitroglycerin
• Nuclear fission of uranium-235