Chapter 16, Problem 97A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the reaction is endothermic or exothermic if the $\Delta H$ value for a reaction is negative needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Enthalpy is defined as the heat content of a particular system. The change in enthalpy is given by the equation,

$\Delta H=H_{\text{products}}-H_{\text{reactants}}$

Where, $\Delta H$ is the heat enthalpy change.

Answer to Problem 97A

The reaction is followed by the releasing of heat. Hence, this reaction is an exothermic reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The change in enthalpy is given by the equation,

$\Delta H=H_{\text{products}}-H_{\text{reactants}}$

It is given that the value of $\Delta H$ for the reaction is negative. This implies that the reaction is losing some amount of heat or it can be stated that the heat enthalpy of reactants is greater than that of the products.

Therefore, this reaction is an exothermic reaction.

Conclusion

The reaction an exothermic reaction.