Endothermic vs. Exothermic: Reactions are classified into two types, exothermic and endothermic reactions, depending upon their giving or taking of energy. The main difference between endothermic and exothermic reactions is that endothermic reactions take place when the system takes up energy, while in exothermic reactions, the system gives up energy in the form of heat or light. Moreover, in an endothermic reaction, energy is absorbed, while in an exothermic, energy is released in the surroundings.
Let’s take a closer look at exothermic vs. endothermic
| Reactants Energy | Endothermic reactants have lower energy than exothermic reactions |
| Environment | Endothermic absorbs energy from the environment while exothermic releases energy to the environment |
| Enthalpy Change | In endothermic, the enthalpy change is positive, while in exothermic, it is negative |
| Used In | Both terms are used in chemistry and physics |
Table of Contents
What Is an Endothermic Reaction?
If we look at the endothermic meaning, it is a type of reaction in which the system absorbs all the energy from its surroundings. As it is clear from its names, “endo” means “to absorb”, and “thermic” means “heat”. Examples are dry ice, melting ice, thermal decomposition and alkane cracking. This energy absorption happens due to the conversion of reactants into products due to the disassociation of the bonds between molecules. In such a reaction, the heat is taken up from the surroundings, so the temperature of the system where the reaction is taking place remains cooler. Also, the enthalpy, a change in the heat energy during the conversion of reactant to the products, is higher at the end of the reaction.
What Are Exothermic Reactions?
If we look at the exothermic meaning, these are the chemical reactions which release energy into the surroundings. As it is clear from its name, “exo” means “to release”, and “thermic” means “heat”. These reactions are involved in the release of energy. Some of the common examples of exothermic reactions are burning a substance, reactions of fuels, deposition of dry ice, and respiration. Exothermic reactions are warmer than endothermic, and sometimes they can be dangerous with high-rate reactions. The release of energy is due to the formation of new bonds or products at a higher level. At the end of these reactions, the enthalpy change becomes lower. No matter what reaction it is, it requires a lot of energy, which is used to hold the bonds holding the molecules together.
5 Key Differences Between Endothermic and Exothermic Reaction
| Components | Endothermic | Exothermic |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | If we look at the endothermic definition, it is a type of reaction in which the system absorbs all the energy from its surroundings. As it is clear from its names, “endo” means “to absorb”, and “thermic” means “heat”. | If we look at the exothermic definition, these are the chemical reactions which release energy into the surroundings. As it is clear from its name, “exo” means “to release”, and “thermic” means “heat”. |
| Energy | During endothermic reactions, the system absorbs energy from the surroundings. | During exothermic reactions, the system releases energy to the surroundings. |
| Etymology | Endothermic is a Greek Word in which “endo” means “inside”, and “thermal” means “heat.” | Exothermic Is derived from the Greek word ” Outside to Heat.” |
| In Chemistry | In endothermic chemical reactions, a chemical bond breaks, and the energy is absorbed to place the electrons in a higher state. | In an exothermic chemical reaction, the chemical bonds are formed, and energy is released, caused by the loss of kinetic energy in reacting electrons. |
| Result | As a result of endothermic reactions, the energy is absorbed from the environment into the reaction. | As a result of the exothermic reaction, the energy is released from the system into the environment. |
Endothermic vs Exothermic Similarities
- Whether it is an endothermic or exothermic reaction, both need a lot of energy.
- Both reactions are combined in an annular tubular reactor in order to save energy.
Endothermic vs Exothermic Examples
Endothermic Examples
- Photosynthesis: During photosynthesis, a plant absorbs the energy from the surroundings in order to break CO2 and H2O.
- Cooking an Egg: During cooking, an egg’s energy is absorbed from the pan in order to cook.
- Evaporation: Evaporation, like sweating, cools down a person as water absorbs heat in order to change it into gas form.
Exothermic Examples
- Combustion: Whenever anything burns, whether it is small or big, it is always an exothermic reaction as it releases heat and light.
- Concrete: Whenever water is added to the concrete, a chemical reaction releases the heat.
- Rain Formation: The condensation of water vapor into rain is also an exothermic reaction as it also releases heat.
Endothermic vs. Exothermic Pros and Cons
Endothermic Pros and Cons
Pros of Endothermic Reaction
- Endothermic reactions are used in our daily life in many ways, including cooking an egg and making instant ice packs which can be used to relieve pain or to treat injuries.
- Photosynthesis, an endothermic reaction, is a very important process as it releases oxygen into the environment for all living organisms.
Cons of Endothermic Reaction
- Endothermic reactions absorb heat and can also give off some toxic or flammable gases, which can be dangerous.
- Some of the endothermic reactions can be difficult to control, especially if there is any instrumentation failure or in another system.
Exothermic Reaction Pros and Cons
Pros of Exothermic Reaction
- Exothermic reaction reactions are very important as they can also provide heat and light.
- These reactions are used in our daily life, such as lighting a match, a firework display, and starting an oven; all are exothermic reactions.
Cons of Exothermic Reaction
- Exothermic reactions can be more dangerous and harmful than endothermic reactions as they have the ability to create temperature runaway situations.
- An exothermic reaction must be performed in the examination to reduce the risk of any side reaction.
Comparison Chart
Comparison Video
Conclusion
Reactions are classified into two types, exothermic and endothermic reactions, depending upon their giving or taking of energy. But If we talk about endothermic versus exothermic reactions, there are a lot of endothermic Vs. Exothermic differences. The main difference between these two reactions is that endothermic reactions take place when the system takes up energy, while in an exothermic reaction, the system gives up energy in the form of heat or light. Moreover, In an endothermic reaction, the heat is taken up from the surroundings, and as a result, the temperature of the system where the reaction is taking place remains cooler. While in an exothermic reaction. The release of energy is due to the formation of new bonds or products at a higher level. At the end of these reactions, the enthalpy change becomes lower.
