Exothermic reactions
In exothermic reactions, energy is transferred to the surroundings and the temperature of the surroundings increases.
Watch this video to see how an increase in temperature can be measured when magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid.
Exothermic reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid
The slideshow describes an exothermic reaction between dilute sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid.
Image caption, 1. Sodium hydroxide solution is poured into a beaker of hydrochloric acid which contains a thermometer showing room temperature
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Examples of exothermic reactions include:
- The process of burning by heat. reactions
- many The gain of oxygen, or loss of electrons, by a substance during a chemical reaction. reactions
- most The reaction between an acid and a base to form a salt plus water. reactions
Everyday uses of exothermic reactions include self-heating cans and hand warmers.
