Gerald's science teacher mixed room temperature samples of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide in a large beaker. The solution still looked clear like water, but when the students carefully touched the beaker one at a time, it felt warm to the touch. Why did the beaker most likely feel warm?

Question

Gdeinward · Answer

Because an exothermic reaction occurred. By mixing the two chemicals, heat was released. When chemical reactions occur, heat is either released, an exothermic reaction,  or heat is taken in, an endothermic reaction.