Textbook Question
Identify each of the following reactions as a synthesis, decomposition, or exchange reaction:
2Hg + O₂ 2HgO
Fe²¹ + CuSO₄ → FeSO₄ + Cu²¹
HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H₂O
HNO₃ → H⁺ + NO₃⁻
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3. Energy & Cell Processes
Chemical Reactions
2:32 minutesProblem 27
Textbook Question
In an exergonic reaction,
(a) Large molecules are broken down into smaller ones.
(b) Small molecules are assembled into larger ones.
(c) Molecules are rearranged to form new molecules.
(d) Molecules move from reactants to products and back.
(e) Energy is released during the reaction.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the term 'exergonic reaction.' Exergonic reactions are chemical reactions that release energy, typically in the form of heat or light. These reactions occur spontaneously and result in a net decrease in free energy.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. Each option describes a different type of chemical process or reaction. For example, (a) refers to catabolic reactions, (b) refers to anabolic reactions, (c) refers to rearrangement reactions, (d) refers to dynamic equilibrium, and (e) refers to energy release.
Step 3: Recall that exergonic reactions are associated with the release of energy. This is a key characteristic that distinguishes them from endergonic reactions, which require energy input.
Step 4: Match the characteristic of energy release to the correct option in the problem. Consider how energy release aligns with the definition of an exergonic reaction.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the option that explicitly states energy is released during the reaction, as this is the defining feature of exergonic reactions.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Exergonic Reactions
Exergonic reactions are chemical processes that release energy, typically in the form of heat or light. These reactions occur spontaneously and are characterized by a negative change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG < 0). This energy release often drives biological processes, making exergonic reactions crucial for metabolism and cellular functions.
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Energy Release
In the context of exergonic reactions, energy release refers to the energy that is liberated when reactants are converted into products. This energy can be harnessed to perform work in biological systems, such as powering cellular activities or driving endergonic reactions, which require energy input. Understanding this concept is essential for grasping how energy flows in biochemical pathways.
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Molecular Changes
Molecular changes in exergonic reactions involve the transformation of reactants into products, which can include breaking down large molecules into smaller ones or rearranging atoms to form new compounds. This concept highlights the dynamic nature of chemical reactions and the importance of molecular interactions in determining the direction and energy changes of the reaction.
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