Question

Which of the following statements is true about an exothermic reaction?

• A. \(\Delta H\) is positive and heat is absorbed from the surroundings.
• B. \(\Delta H\) is negative and the temperature of the surroundings increases.
• C. \(\Delta H\) is zero and no energy change occurs.
• D. \(\Delta H\) is negative but the reaction is always non-spontaneous.

Hint:

Exothermic reactions release heat, causing \(\Delta H\) to be negative and surroundings' temperature to rise.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

- An exothermic reaction releases heat to the surroundings. 
- Therefore, the enthalpy change \(\Delta H\) is negative because the system loses heat, making (B) correct. 
- The heat released increases the temperature of the surroundings. 
- (A) is incorrect because a positive \(\Delta H\) means heat is absorbed (endothermic). 
- (C) is incorrect because exothermic reactions involve a change in energy. 
- (D) is incorrect because negative \(\Delta H\) often correlates with spontaneous reactions, not always non-spontaneous. 
Answer: \(\boxed{\text{B}}\)