Question

A reaction that releases energy is __________?

1) exergonic
2) endergonic
3) impossible
4) None of the choices are correct.

Answer 1

An exergonic reaction releases energy, has a negative ΔG, and includes processes like cellular respiration and catabolic reactions, whereas an endergonic reaction requires energy and includes photosynthesis and anabolic reactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

A reaction that releases energy is exergonic. In such reactions, the change in free energy (ΔG) is negative, indicating that energy is exiting the system. Examples of exergonic reactions include cellular respiration and catabolic reactions, which are spontaneous and can occur without additional energy input. Endergonic reactions, on the other hand, require an input of energy, as they result in products with higher energy than the reactants. Photosynthesis and anabolic reactions are examples of endergonic processes.

Answer 2

A reaction that releases energy is known as an exergonic reaction. Examples include cellular respiration and catabolic reactions, both of which release energy, while photosynthesis and anabolic reactions require energy input and are endergonic.

The correct answer is an option 1

Step-by-step explanation:

A reaction that releases energy is called an exergonic reaction. Identifying whether each of the following reactions is exergonic or endergonic based on the criteria that exergonic reactions have a negative Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) and release energy, whereas endergonic reactions have a positive ΔG and require energy input:

• Cellular respiration - Exergonic, as it releases energy.
• Photosynthesis - Endergonic, since it requires the input of energy from light to proceed.
• Catabolic reactions - Exergonic, they break down molecules and release energy.
• Anabolic reactions - Endergonic, as they build complex molecules from simpler ones and require energy.

Exergonic reactions, like cellular respiration and catabolic reactions, are considered spontaneous, meaning they can occur without the addition of energy into the system. However, this term does not imply that the reaction happens instantly. An example of a spontaneous yet slow process is the rusting of iron. So, The correct answer is an option 1