Reaction Enthalpy

Reaction enthalpy is the amount of heat absorbed or released during a chemical reaction at constant pressure. It indicates whether a reaction is exothermic (releases heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat). Think of it as the energy change associated with rearranging atoms in the reactants to form products. If the reaction releases heat, it’s often felt as warmth; if it absorbs heat, it makes the surroundings cooler. This concept helps chemists understand energy flow in reactions, predict their behavior, and design processes like engines, batteries, or chemical manufacturing.