Answer to Question #133309 in General Chemistry for Tatiana

Question

If forming new bonds releases energy, how can a reaction ever be endothermic (absorbs energy)?

Answer 1

Forming new bonds always releases energy, but in case of endothermic reactions the energy required to break the bonds of reactants is greater than the energy, which is released upon formation of new bonds. Therefore, in order for an endothermic reaction to proceed, the energy is required, which means that it is absorbed.