Which type of reaction typically occurs in a chemical hand warmer?

• A. Neutralization reaction
• B. Photochemical reaction
• C. Endothermic reaction
• D. Exothermic reaction

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of a chemical hand warmer: it is designed to release heat to keep hands warm over time.
2. Recall the definitions of the reaction types: a neutralization reaction involves acid-base interaction, a photochemical reaction requires light to proceed, an endothermic reaction absorbs heat, and an exothermic reaction releases heat.
3. Analyze the function of the hand warmer: since it provides heat, the reaction inside must release energy, which corresponds to an exothermic process.
4. Recognize that the chemical reactions in hand warmers typically involve oxidation or crystallization processes that release heat to the surroundings.
5. Conclude that the type of reaction occurring in a chemical hand warmer is an exothermic reaction because it produces heat as a product.