Exothermic Reaction vs Endothermic Reaction — Difference (with Table)
Exothermic Reaction vs Endothermic Reaction compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10-11 Chemistry, free and no sign-up.
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TL;DR: Exothermic Reaction vs Endothermic Reaction compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table and 4 key points. Class 10-11 Chemistry, free and no sign…
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The main difference between Exothermic Reaction and Endothermic Reaction: An exothermic reaction releases heat energy to the surroundings, increasing the temperature of the environment. An endothermic reaction absorbs heat energy
Exothermic Reaction vs Endothermic Reaction — Comparison Table
| Basis | Exothermic Reaction | Endothermic Reaction |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Transfer | Heat released to surroundings | Heat absorbed from surroundings |
| Temperature Change | Temperature of surroundings increases | Temperature of surroundings decreases |
| Activation Energy | Once started, usually continues without external heat | Requires continuous supply of external heat |
| Enthalpy Change | Negative (delta H is negative) | Positive (delta H is positive) |
| Example | Combustion, neutralization, respiration, rusting | Melting ice, evaporation, photosynthesis, dissolving salt |
| Reverse Process | Endothermic is reverse process | Exothermic is reverse process |
Key Points
- Most combustion reactions are exothermic
- Phase changes like melting and evaporation are endothermic
- Photosynthesis is a major endothermic process in nature
- The reverse of any reaction changes the heat absorption direction