Exothermic: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 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.

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.

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.

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