How is enthalpy change (ΔH) measured experimentally?

Here’s a explanation:

Measuring Enthalpy Change (ΔH) Experimentally

1. Using a calorimeter
   • A calorimeter is a device that measures heat. A simple version is a coffee cup with water.
2. The process
   • Measure the starting temperature of the water.
   • Mix the chemicals that will react in the water.
   • Measure the final temperature after the reaction.
3. Interpreting the result
   • If the water gets warmer, the reaction releases heat → exothermic → ΔH is negative.
   • If the water gets colder, the reaction absorbs heat → endothermic → ΔH is positive.
4. Other methods
   • For burning reactions, a bomb calorimeter is used, which is more precise and measures the heat released in a sealed container.

This is basically how scientists measure how much heat a reaction gives off or takes in.