Question

Classify the following processes as endothermic or exothermic.

1. a package from a first-aid kit is smashed and begins to feel hot exothermic
2. A solid is dissolved in water and the temperature of the mixture decreases.
3. Ice is removed from the freezer and melts.

Answer 1

Processes can either absorb heat (endothermic) or release heat (exothermic). For instance, boiling water is endothermic while burning gasoline is exothermic. Ice forming is exothermic too as heat leaves the water.

Step-by-step explanation:

Processes that release heat to the surroundings are labeled as exothermic, while processes that absorb heat from the surroundings are classified as endothermic. Examples of each include:

• Exothermic: A package from a first-aid kit is smashed and begins to feel hot; gasoline burning; ice forming on a pond.
• Endothermic: A solid is dissolved in water and the temperature of the mixture decreases; ice melting after being removed from the freezer.

For a few more instances:

1. Boiling water is an endothermic process, as heat is absorbed to convert liquid water to vapor.
2. Burning gasoline is an exothermic process because it releases heat.
3. Ice forming on a pond is also exothermic, as heat is released during the transition from liquid water to solid ice.
4. Water vapor condensing is an exothermic process, and gold melting is an endothermic process.