What is the primary outcome of an exothermic reaction?

In an exothermic reaction, the primary outcome is the release of thermal energy. This occurs because exothermic reactions involve the transformation of reactants into products with a lower energy state. As the bonds in the products are formed, energy is released into the surroundings, often in the form of heat. This release of heat is a defining characteristic of exothermic processes and is responsible for the increase in temperature of the surrounding environment.

While the formation of new compounds is also correct and occurs during an exothermic reaction, it is the thermal energy release that fundamentally characterizes the reaction as exothermic. Absorption of thermal energy pertains to endothermic reactions, where energy must be absorbed for the reaction to proceed. The production of electrolytic products is not a defining feature of exothermic reactions and typically relates more to electrochemical processes. Therefore, the focus on the release of thermal energy captures the essence of what happens during an exothermic reaction.