What is enthalpy in layman's terms?
Enthalpy is the heat generated or absorbed in a chemical reaction. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enthalpy
Enthalpy is a thermodynamic property that describes the total heat content of a system at constant pressure. In simpler terms, it represents the amount of energy stored in a substance or a system. It includes both the internal energy of the system and the energy required to maintain constant pressure against its surroundings.
To calculate the enthalpy change of a substance or a chemical reaction, you need to determine the difference between the enthalpies of the products and the reactants. This can be done using experimental data or by applying thermodynamic equations.
One way to measure enthalpy change is through calorimetry, which involves measuring the heat exchanged during a process. By monitoring the temperature change of a substance or a reaction, you can determine the heat gained or lost, which corresponds to the enthalpy change.
Enthalpy is commonly used in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and engineering. It helps in understanding and quantifying energy transfers in chemical reactions, phase changes, and other thermodynamic processes.