Chapter 20, Problem 20RQ

To determine

The reason of self-sustaining ability of exothermic reactions.

Answer to Problem 20RQ

The energy released in the exothermic reaction of one mole of a compound can use by the other mole of compound and this will repeat thus exothermic reactions are self-sustaining reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The process of the conversion of reactant species into the product species is called a chemical reaction. There are two main types of chemical reactions based on the exchange of energy.

The chemical reaction where the energy is absorbed in the system from the external area or the surrounding is the endothermic type of reaction.

The chemical reaction where the energy is released to the surrounding from the area of interest or the system is the exothermic type of reaction.

Since, the exothermic reaction releases energy during the reaction process. This released energy of the exothermic reaction of one mole of a compound can be used by the other mole of the compound and this energy usage will repeat thus exothermic reactions are the self-sustaining reaction.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the energy released in the exothermic reaction of one mole of a compound can use by the other mole of compound and this will repeat thus exothermic reactions are self-sustaining reaction