In terms of energy, what typically happens in an exothermic reaction?

In an exothermic reaction, energy is released to the surroundings as the reaction progresses. This occurs because the total energy of the products is lower than that of the reactants, resulting in the excess energy being emitted, often in the form of heat and light. This release of energy can lead to an increase in the temperature of the surrounding environment, making exothermic reactions particularly significant in various chemical processes, such as combustion.

The phenomenon of energy release is integral to the balancing of energy in chemical reactions, as the transformation of reactants into products typically involves changes in the chemical bonds, where more stable bonds are formed in the products than in the reactants. Consequently, the energy that was stored in the reactants is liberated during the formation of these products, which characterizes an exothermic reaction.

Understanding this concept is essential, as it contrasts with endothermic reactions, where energy is absorbed rather than released.