Which of the following best describes the process of freezing water?

• A. It is an endothermic process because heat is released to the surroundings.
• B. It is an exothermic process because heat is released to the surroundings.
• C. It is an endothermic process because heat is absorbed from the surroundings.
• D. It is an exothermic process because heat is absorbed from the surroundings.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of endothermic and exothermic processes: An endothermic process absorbs heat from the surroundings, while an exothermic process releases heat to the surroundings.
2. Recall the phase change involved in freezing water: freezing is the transition from liquid water to solid ice.
3. Consider the energy changes during freezing: when water freezes, molecules lose energy and form a more ordered solid structure, which typically releases heat to the surroundings.
4. Apply the concept to the problem: since freezing releases heat, it is an exothermic process.
5. Conclude that the correct description is: freezing water is an exothermic process because heat is released to the surroundings.