The enthalpy of formation of water is –285.8 kJ/mol. What can be inferred from this statement?

A negative enthalpy of formation, –285.8 kJ/mol, means the formation of one mole of water releases 285.8 kJ of heat. The process is therefore exothermic, so heat is released. The negative value also indicates that the products have lower enthalpy than the reactants.

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