# Neutralisation is described as an exothermic reaction. Using ideas about bond breaking and bond forming, explain why the temperature of the surroundings increases during a neutralisation reaction.

> Eduqas GCSE Chemistry — C5 Energy changes · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Energy must be supplied to break bonds in the reactants
2. Energy is released when new bonds are formed in the products
3. The energy released from forming new bonds is greater than the energy needed to break existing bonds
4. The excess/surplus energy is transferred to the surroundings, causing the temperature to increase

## Key terms

- [exothermic reaction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/exothermic-reaction)
- [bond breaking](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/bond-breaking)
- [bond forming](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/bond-forming)
- [surroundings](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/surroundings)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Chemistry](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/neutralisation-is-described-as-an-exothermic-4c17b180) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.