Classify each of the following as exothermic or endothermic: c. The metabolism of glucose in the body provides energy.

Exothermic reactions are chemical processes that release energy, usually in the form of heat, to their surroundings. This occurs when the total energy of the products is lower than that of the reactants, resulting in a net release of energy. Common examples include combustion and respiration, where energy is produced and can be harnessed for biological functions.

Endothermic reactions absorb energy from their surroundings, leading to a decrease in temperature in the immediate environment. In these reactions, the energy of the products is higher than that of the reactants, requiring an input of energy to proceed. Photosynthesis is a classic example, where plants absorb sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.

The metabolism of glucose is a series of biochemical reactions that convert glucose into energy, primarily through cellular respiration. This process is exothermic, as it releases energy stored in glucose molecules, which is then used by cells for various functions. The overall reaction can be summarized as glucose reacting with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy.