Fire is an example of ________________ reaction, because heat is _____________ the system.
exothermic; entering
b
endothermic; leaving
c
endothermic; entering
d
exothermic; leaving
d
The correct answer is d) exothermic; leaving.
Fire is an example of an exothermic reaction because it releases heat to the surrounding environment. The heat is leaving the system, resulting in a decrease in energy.
The correct answer is "d) exothermic; leaving".
To understand why, we need to understand the terms "exothermic" and "endothermic" and the direction of heat transfer in a system.
An exothermic reaction is a type of reaction that releases heat energy into the surroundings. In other words, it gives off heat. Combustion, such as fire, is an exothermic reaction because it releases heat as a product.
On the other hand, an endothermic reaction is a type of reaction that absorbs heat energy from the surroundings. In other words, it takes in heat. An example of an endothermic reaction is the process of photosynthesis, where plants absorb light energy from the sun.
When we talk about heat entering or leaving the system, we are referring to the direction of heat transfer. In this case, because fire is an exothermic reaction, heat is leaving the system and being transferred to the surroundings. Therefore, the correct choice is "exothermic; leaving".