Question

In chemical reactions, what is the role of energy?

Answer 1

Role of energy in chemical reactions:

• In a chemical reaction, energy is used for either breaking the bonds of the reactants or in the formation of new bonds.
• So, there are two ways to produce the energy in a reaction i.e, in exothermic reaction or endothermic reaction.

Endothermic Reactions:

• Endothermic reaction refers to a reaction in which a system absorbs energy from its surroundings in the form of heat.
• Examples: Evaporating liquids, melting ice, etc.

Exothermic reactions:

• The exothermic reaction refers to a reaction in which there is a release of energy in the form of light or heat to its surroundings.
• Examples: Burning a substance, burning of fuels, etc.

Hence, the role of energy in any chemical reaction is that either energy is released or absorbed in a chemical reaction.