What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exergonic
Example
The breakdown of glucose is an exergonic process. [exergonic: adjective]
Example
ATP hydrolysis is an exergonic reaction that powers many cellular processes. [exergonic: adjective]
exothermic
Example
The combustion of wood is an exothermic reaction. [exothermic: adjective]
Example
The hand warmer works by using an exothermic reaction to produce heat. [exothermic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exothermic is more commonly used than exergonic in everyday language, especially in the context of chemistry and physics. Exergonic is more commonly used in biology and biochemistry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exergonic and exothermic?
Both exergonic and exothermic are technical terms used in scientific contexts and are considered formal language.
