Vinegar (acetic acid) and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) react in an endothermic reaction to produce sodium acetate, carbon dioxide, and water.

Question

Which statement justifies classifying the reaction as endothermic?
A. The reaction produces water.
B. The bonds in both the reactants and products are covalent bonds.
C. The reaction needs a catalyst.
D. The total potential energy of the products is less than the total potential energy of the products

Answer 1

The correct statement that justifies classifying the reaction as endothermic is:

D. The total potential energy of the products is less than the total potential energy of the reactants.

In an endothermic reaction, the reactants absorb energy from the surroundings, resulting in products that have higher potential energy than the reactants. This energy absorption is what characterizes the reaction as endothermic.