Chemistry GCSE
Exothermic
What Exothermic means in Chemistry GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Exothermic
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Exothermic in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A reaction that transfers energy to the surroundings and raises the temperature, such as combustion.
Described by a negative overall energy change, meaning the reaction is exothermic overall.
A reaction in which products sit lower, so energy is released to the surroundings.
Topics that use Exothermic
- Atoms, elements and compounds (AQA GCSE)
- Reaction profiles (AQA GCSE)
- The energy change of reactions (HT only) (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Activation energy
- Endothermic
- Overall energy change
- Balanced chemical equation
- Balanced equation
- Bond breaking
- Bond energies
- Bond making
Using Exothermic in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Chemistry GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge