Definition

Describing a process that releases energy, often used in chemistry and biology to refer to reactions that give off energy.

Example

The exergonic reaction produced heat and light as it occurred.

Conversation

Did you know that some chemical reactions are exergonic?

Really? I thought all reactions required energy to start.

Nope! Exergonic reactions actually release energy as they occur.

That's interesting! I guess that makes them pretty efficient.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exergonic → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of) and "ergon" (from Greek, meaning work) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word describes a process that releases energy, specifically work done by a system as it moves to a lower energy state.

Memory Tip

Think of 'work' ('ergon') being done 'out of' ('ex-') a system, which helps you remember that 'exergonic' refers to processes that release energy.

Visually Confused Words