exoergic

Exoergic is a term used in chemistry and physics to describe a process that releases energy. This energy release typically takes the form of heat, light, or other forms of electromagnetic radiation. The opposite of an exoergic process is an endoergic process, which requires energy input to occur.

In chemical reactions, exoergic reactions are also known as exothermic reactions. These reactions release thermal energy into their surroundings, causing a rise in temperature. A common example is combustion, where the rapid reaction of a fuel with an oxidant releases a significant amount of heat and light. Another example is the neutralization of a strong acid with a strong base.

In nuclear physics, exoergic processes involve the release of energy from atomic nuclei. Nuclear fission, where a heavy nucleus splits into lighter nuclei, and nuclear fusion, where light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, are both highly exoergic processes that release vast amounts of energy. The energy released in these nuclear reactions is often greater than that released in chemical reactions, due to the much stronger forces involved in holding atomic nuclei together. The term exoergic is a general descriptor, encompassing both chemical and nuclear energy releases.