Question

A student is collecting data for the reaction of baking soda and vinegar. The initial temperature of the vinegar is 25˚ C and the final temperature of the reaction is 19˚ C. Identify the reaction as endothermic or exothermic and explain what is happening in terms of energy of the systems and the surroundings.

Answer 1

According to the data supplied, the reaction of baking soda and vinegar is exothermic. Exothermic reactions transfer energy from the system to the environment, often in the form of heat. The beginning temperature of the vinegar was 25 degrees Celsius, and the ultimate temperature of the reaction was 19 degrees Celsius, indicating that heat was released into the environment. This is consistent with an exothermic process, in which energy is released and transmitted to the surroundings. As a result of the chemical interaction between baking soda and vinegar, carbon dioxide gas is created, and heat is emitted.