When a calorimeter is used, no heat is exchanged between the contents of the container and the outside air. If an exothermic reaction is conducted inside a calorimeter filled with water, which of the following statements best describes what occurs during the reaction?

The total energy inside the calorimeter is conserved.

The thermometer will show a decrease in temperature.

The water decreases in temperature as the reaction absorbs heat.

The potential energy of the reactants is lower than that of the reactants.

Question

When a calorimeter is used, no heat is exchanged between the contents of the container and the outside air. If an exothermic reaction is conducted inside a calorimeter filled with water, which of the following statements best describes what occurs during the reaction?

 The total energy inside the calorimeter is conserved.

 The thermometer will show a decrease in temperature.

 The water decreases in temperature as the reaction absorbs heat.

 The potential energy of the reactants is lower than that of the reactants.

aaronq · Answer

what do you think?

anonymous · Answer

im kinda of thinking A because D and C dont really make sense

anonymous · Answer

B really doesnt make too much sense but it is possible.. i would think if anything the temp would rise

anonymous · Answer

@JFraser am i on the right track?

jfraser · Answer

you are.

Can you distinguish between A and D, since the problem tells you that the reaction is EXOthermic?