What is the term for a chemical reaction that produces heat?

The term that refers to a chemical reaction producing heat is exothermic. This type of reaction releases energy in the form of heat to the surroundings, often causing an increase in temperature of the environment around the reaction. Common examples of exothermic reactions include combustion and respiration, where energy is released as chemical bonds are broken and formed.

The concept of exothermic reactions is essential in various fields, especially in firefighting and emergency response, as understanding how heat is generated can help responders manage and control fires effectively. Recognizing exothermic reactions helps firefighters predict how materials will behave under certain conditions, aiding in fire suppression strategies.

The other options do not accurately describe reactions that produce heat. Thermodynamic refers to the study of energy and its transformations in systems but does not specifically indicate heat production. Isothermic describes processes occurring at a constant temperature, which is not indicative of heat production. Thermostatic relates to devices that regulate temperature but is not a type of reaction itself.