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Exothermic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exothermic

[หŒษ›ksoสŠหˆฮธษœหrmษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

chemical reactions

An exothermic reaction is a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of heat or light. During such a reaction, the total energy of the products is lower than that of the reactants, indicating that energy has been released to the surroundings. These reactions are often characterized by an increase in temperature in the surrounding environment.

Synonyms

energy-releasing, heat-releasing.

Examples of usage

  • The combustion of fuels is an exothermic process.
  • During photosynthesis, plants undergo an exothermic reaction.
  • The heat generated from the rusting of iron is an example of an exothermic reaction.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Chemistry

  • Combustion reactions, like burning wood or fossil fuels, are classic examples of exothermic processes.
  • Respiration in living organisms is also exothermic, where sugar is converted into energy while releasing heat.

Everyday Examples

  • The chemical reactions in hand warmers produce heat, making them exothermic.
  • Fireworks reactions are exothermic, as they release heat and light during the explosion.

Environmental Impact

  • Exothermic reactions can contribute to global warming when fossil fuels are burned on a large scale.
  • Understanding these reactions is crucial for energy production and sustainable practices.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, explosions often depict exothermic reactions, emphasizing their energetic effects.
  • Science fairs sometimes feature experiments highlighting exothermic vs. endothermic reactions, engaging students in chemistry.

Origin of 'exothermic'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Greek words 'exo' meaning 'outside' and 'thermos' meaning 'heat'.
  • The term has been used in scientific literature since the early 20th century.

The term 'exothermic' comes from the combination of the Greek prefix 'exo-' meaning 'outside' or 'external', and 'thermic' from the Greek word 'thermฤ“', meaning 'heat'. The concept emerged in the context of chemical reactions during the development of thermodynamics in the 19th century. As scientists began to study the energy changes involved in chemical reactions, they recognized the importance of distinguishing between reactions that absorbed heat (endothermic) and those that released heat (exothermic). The designation has been crucial to fields such as chemistry, physics, and biochemistry, as it helps in understanding the energy flow in various processes.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,785, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.